The Kebbi Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has strengthened its fire safety preparedness through a practical firefighting training programme conducted in collaboration with the Federal Fire Service, following the provision of fire extinguishers to the Command by the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Mahmoud Ibrahim.
The training, held on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at the Command Headquarters in Birnin Kebbi, was designed to equip officers and men with the basic knowledge and skills required to prevent fires and respond effectively to emergencies at the incipient stage.
The exercise was chaired by the Deputy Comptroller of Customs, Ibrahim Yusuf, who represented the Customs Area Controller. It was facilitated by the Federal Fire Service resource person, Deputy Superintendent of Fire Kabiru Muhammad, alongside other fire safety professionals, and attended by senior officers and men of the Command.
In his opening remarks, Yusuf stressed that fire safety was a collective responsibility, noting that fire outbreaks could occur unexpectedly and that adequate knowledge and preparedness could make the difference between a minor incident and a major disaster.
He urged the participants to take the training seriously and remain vigilant in their respective work environments.
Speaking during the programme, Muhammad described fire safety as a shared responsibility involving building owners and managers, employees, occupants and fire safety professionals.
He commended Matawalle for providing the necessary fire safety equipment and facilitating the training, noting that the initiative would enhance the Command’s preparedness to respond to fire emergencies.
According to him, the knowledge acquired during the exercise could prove invaluable in situations where officers may be required to protect lives and property from fire outbreaks.
The participants were trained on the principles of fire extinction, common causes of fire, preventive measures and the correct use of fire extinguishers, fire blankets and fire buckets.
The theoretical sessions were followed by a practical demonstration, giving officers and men the opportunity to operate firefighting equipment under the supervision and guidance of fire safety professionals.
The practical component was aimed at ensuring that participants could translate the knowledge acquired into effective action during an actual emergency.
At the close of the exercise, the Command encouraged all participating officers and men to share the knowledge and skills acquired with their families and communities.
The Command noted that the ability to identify fire risks and respond appropriately at the early stage of an outbreak could help prevent loss of lives, minimise damage and protect property.
The training further underscored the Command’s commitment to strengthening workplace safety and ensuring that its personnel are adequately prepared to respond to emergencies.