By Abasi Ita
Calabar
The Cross River State Government has begun moves to restore its emergency fire service operations after more than two decades of neglect, with the Calabar base set to be the first to return to full capacity.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Asset Management and Recovery, Barr. Gilbert Agbor, disclosed this during an inspection of facilities at the State Fire Service Headquarters along Mary Slessor Avenue, Calabar.
Agbor, who was accompanied by members of the Asset Recovery Committee, said Governor Bassey Otu’s approval for the rehabilitation of fire service infrastructure underscored his administration’s determination to safeguard lives and property.
“This intervention is timely. Once fully restored, our fire service bases across the state will be equipped to handle emergencies more effectively, especially with the dry season approaching,” he said.
He explained that all fire service assets, both functional and moribund, would be documented and profiled to ensure transparency and accountability in their management.
He directed the Fire Service to submit a comprehensive inventory of assets within two weeks for inclusion in the state’s database.
Agbor also urged the agency to make prudent use of rehabilitated facilities and new equipment, stressing that periodic inspections would be carried out to track progress and provide updates directly to the Governor.
During the tour, the State Director of Fire Service, Mr. Emmanuel Ajom, showed the delegation several fire trucks undergoing major repairs as part of efforts to restore operational readiness.
The team also inspected buildings being redesigned, reconstructed, and renovated to meet international standards in emergency response.
Ajom commended Governor Otu for what he described as an unprecedented investment in the fire service sector. “For over two decades, this department suffered neglect under previous administrations. This is the first time we are witnessing such deliberate intervention. We are deeply grateful to the Governor for remembering this critical sector,” he said.
The Director appealed for the speedy completion of the project to enable the service to respond promptly to frequent fire outbreaks in Calabar and surrounding communities