ABUJA – In a bid to tackle the pressing safety concerns in Abuja’s markets and motor parks, the FCT Fire Service has launched a comprehensive plan to mitigate risks and ensure the highest standards of safety and organization.
He, however, commended the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike for making the roads accessible the roads motorable for the agency to ply through easily whenever there is an emergency.
Speaking at a press conference, the Director of the FCT Fire Service, Engr. Adebayo Amiola Zacchaeus, outlined a comprehensive strategy aimed at mitigating risks and ensuring the highest standards of safety and organization in public spaces.
“In recent times, we have witnessed devastating market fires that have wreaked havoc on businesses and livelihoods. The recent one is Karu Market,” Zacchaeus began, emphasizing the urgency of the issue. The blockage of access roads during emergencies has exacerbated the damage, delaying crucial response times. “Emergency responders are often hindered by obstructed routes, which significantly increases the risk to lives and property,” he noted.
A key component of the new safety measures includes the installation of additional fire hydrants at strategic locations within markets. “Equally concerning is the lack or inadequate number of fire hydrants in our markets,” Zacchaeus highlighted. The director also stressed the importance of addressing hazardous electrical installations, which are frequent culprits in market fires. “Many installations do not comply with safety standards, creating hazardous environments prone to electrical faults and sparks,” he added.
The new plan mandates strict regulation of electrical installations, with regular inspections and severe penalties for non-compliance. Additionally, the strategy calls for the enforcement of clear access roads and the creation of designated emergency lanes to ensure quick response during crises.
Another alarming practice is traders sleeping in markets, which not only violates regulations but poses significant risks to personal safety and property. “The building of shanties within market areas has become a rampant issue, contributing to disorder and serving as fuel for fires,” Zacchaeus explained. The plan includes strict enforcement of no-sleeping regulations within markets and the demolition of illegal shanties, coupled with regular inspections to prevent their re-establishment.
To address the disorganized layouts that impede movement and accessibility in markets and motor parks, the FCT Fire Service will implement a reorganization of makeshift shops to ensure wide pathways and clear access points for emergency vehicles.
“We must also address the recurring incidents of building collapses and other emergencies,” Zacchaeus said, highlighting the need for stringent building regulations and regular safety inspections.
He called upon all stakeholders, including traders, market authorities, and government agencies, to cooperate in implementing these measures. The strategy includes public awareness campaigns to educate traders and park users on safety practices, regular drills, and training for market and lot motor park stakeholders, and traders in the establishment of rapid response teams for emergencies.
“Together, we can ensure that Abuja remains a safe, organized, and exemplary city for all,” Zacchaeus concluded. This ambitious plan promises to create a secure environment where businesses can thrive, and lives are protected, setting a new standard for safety and organization in Nigeria’s capital.