FG to repeal 1963 Fire Service Act, rename agency
The Federal Government is set to repeal the 1963 Fire Service Act and replace it with new legislation that will transform the Federal Fire Service into the Federal Fire and Rescue Service. Read More: https://punchng.com/fg-to-repeal-1963-fire-service-act-rename-agency/
The Nigerian government plans to repeal the 1963 Fire Service Act and establish a new Federal Fire and Rescue Service. Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo announced this at the 2026 National Fire Safety Week in Abuja. The new legislation, which has cleared the Federal Executive Council, will expand the agency's duties beyond firefighting, incorporating emergency medical services, search and rescue, hazardous materials response, disaster management, and accident investigation.
Tunji-Ojo stated that the outdated 1963 law hindered the Federal Fire Service's ability to innovate and respond to modern emergencies. The government aims to create a fire service that serves as the first responder during crises, provides first aid and emergency medical services, and enhances fire prevention through inspections, enforcement of safety standards, and public education.
The minister called for integrating rescue techniques and emergency response education into school curricula, emphasizing the need for Nigerians to acquire basic lifesaving skills. The Federal Fire Service is constructing a fire service academy in Abuja, which is 65% complete, and has expanded its leadership and commands.
Written by urgent.news from Punch Nigeria's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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