The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service has inaugurated a Fire Marshal Club and conducted a Safety Walk to strengthen community participation in fire prevention and emergency response across the state.
The development was announced in a statement issued by the Lagos State Government on Sunday.
The awareness walk commenced from the Service Headquarters in Alausa, Ikeja, through the Ikeja Fire Station, and returned to the headquarters to sensitise residents on fire safety and encourage proactive community involvement.
Speaking at the event, the Controller General of the Service, Margaret Adeseye, said although fire incidents remain a concern in Lagos, there has been a slight reduction in recorded cases between 2024 and 2025.
“While fire outbreaks may not be completely eradicated, they can be significantly minimised through collective responsibility, strict compliance with safety measures, and active community engagement,” she said.
Adeseye described the Fire Marshal system as “a globally recognised, community-based volunteer structure that strengthens fire prevention efforts,” adding that the establishment of Fire Marshal Clubs in markets, commercial hubs and communities across the state would greatly enhance emergency preparedness and response.
She stated that members of the Club would receive adequate training and the necessary knowledge to prevent fire outbreaks and respond appropriately during emergencies.
Also speaking, the General Manager of the Lagos State Command and Control Centre, Mr Femi Giwa, stressed the importance of inter-agency collaboration in emergency management in line with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES Plus Agenda.
He said trained Fire Marshals would serve as vital links between their communities and emergency responders, especially through the use of designated toll-free emergency numbers.
Fire safety expert and health and safety advocate, Dr Julius Agbo, commended the initiative, describing it as “a strategic support system for the State Government.”
He noted that research shows “about 95 per cent of fire incidents and accidents are caused by unsafe human actions,” underscoring the need for continuous public education and behavioural change.
The government said the inauguration of the Fire Marshal Club marks another step in its commitment to protecting lives and property through prevention, partnership and improved emergency response.
