FIC REPORT (KADUNA STATE) – The Medical Director of the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital (FNPH), Kaduna, Professor Aishatu Yusha’u Armiya’u, has called for stronger community participation, sustained public enlightenment and collective responsibility as critical measures towards preventing fire outbreaks and reducing their devastating impact on lives and property.
Professor Armiya’u made the call while delivering a goodwill message at the official opening ceremony of the 2026 National Fire Safety Week, held at the Federal Secretariat Complex, Kawo, Kaduna.
Recalling the fire incident that occurred at the hospital’s Female Ward in February 2023, the Medical Director highlighted the remarkable role played by an admitted psychiatric patient who raised the alarm, alongside concerned residents of Barnawa who voluntarily joined efforts to contain the situation.
She described the incident as a compelling demonstration of the importance of community solidarity and individual responsibility in emergency situations, noting that anyone, regardless of social status or background, can become a lifesaver by taking prompt action when disaster strikes.
Professor Armiya’u urged Nigerians to acquire basic fire safety knowledge, remain vigilant and embrace continuous sensitisation on fire prevention and emergency response.
According to her, preventing fire outbreaks and responding appropriately at the early stages can save countless lives, protect livelihoods and prevent the destruction of valuable properties.
She further disclosed that the hospital is strengthening its safety infrastructure through the ongoing construction of a new Female Ward and the continuous upgrading of firefighting equipment to improve emergency preparedness and safeguard patients, staff and visitors.
A major highlight of the occasion was the presentation of an Award of Recognition to Professor Armiya’u in acknowledgement of her contributions, commitment to safety advocacy and dedication to community wellbeing.
Earlier, the Kaduna State Controller of the Federal Fire Service, DCF Aminu Amadu Kiyawa, stated that the theme of this year’s celebration, “Building a Fire-Resilient Nigeria: One Community at a Time,” underscores the collective responsibility of individuals, communities, institutions and government agencies in building a safer society.
The event featured goodwill messages from the Kaduna State Government, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other relevant stakeholders.
It also featured a panel discussion and multimedia presentation highlighting the human, social and financial consequences of fire disasters.
Participants identified inadequate firefighting equipment and inaccessible road networks as some of the major challenges confronting effective fire prevention and emergency response, calling for urgent interventions and stronger institutional collaboration.
The 2026 National Fire Safety Week provided an important platform for stakeholders to renew their commitment to public education, community engagement, effective emergency preparedness and the development of a fire-resilient society.
Signed:
Muhammad Gwani
AD FIRC KADUNA
2nd November,2026.
