The Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) and the Federal Fire Service (FFS) on Thursday strengthened their cooperation to curb fire disasters in Nigerian tertiary institutions.
During a visit by FFS Controller‑General Olumode Samuel Adeyemi and his team to TETFund’s headquarters,
Executive Secretary Arc. Sonny Echono announced plans to establish fire stations in all federal government institutions to enable swift intervention during fire incidents.
Echono emphasized that fire protection on campuses is essential for student safety.
“We are going to ensure that all our schools at least have fire stations so they can respond very quickly in the event of fire. I will be able to support the basic intervention that will enable them to acquire facilities to be able to do so, while you will help with the training and the other facilities of manpower,” he said.
He added that TETFund’s mandate focuses on providing infrastructure for teaching, learning, research and other academic activities, though it does not disburse funds directly to agencies.
Adeyemi explained that the visit aimed to reinforce existing ties between the two agencies and reduce fire outbreaks in tertiary institutions. He highlighted the need for fire stations, smoke detectors, fire alarms, extinguishers and other defence equipment across all buildings in Nigerian universities, polytechnics and colleges.
He cited recent incidents, including a 2024 fire that destroyed three university girls’ hostels in Yobe State, resulting in 29 rooms burnt and five casualties, and a similar event this year at Kogi State University.
“The Service is collaborating with TETFund for the purpose of reducing fire outbreaks in our tertiary institutions. Without the Fund’s permission, our mandate of saving lives and property will remain unachieved on campuses,” Adeyemi said, urging the inclusion of fire safety education for students.
He thanked TETFund for its infrastructural support and expressed optimism that the partnership would significantly reduce economic losses from fire disasters nationwide.