Makinde approves 7 fire trucks, recruits 100 firefighters to boost Oyo emergency response

By Adejayan Gbenga

In a major move to strengthen fire safety and emergency response across Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde has approved the purchase of seven new fire trucks and the recruitment of more than 100 additional firefighters.

The initiative is aimed at enhancing emergency preparedness, improving response time to fire outbreaks and boosting the overall capacity of the state’s fire service.

Chairman of the Oyo State Fire Service Agency and Special Adviser to the Governor on Fire Reform, Mr. Moroof Akinwande, disclosed that the newly recruited firefighters are currently undergoing intensive training to improve their professionalism, technical skills and operational readiness.

He explained that the seven fire trucks, which received approval in December 2025, are already in the procurement process and will significantly improve coverage across the state, enable faster response to emergencies and allow the agency to handle multiple incidents simultaneously.

Akinwande stressed that fire safety is a collective responsibility, urging residents, businesses and organisations to adopt basic preventive measures to reduce fire incidents.

He advised the public to ensure proper electrical wiring, install functional fire extinguishers, create clear escape routes, conduct regular fire drills and handle flammable materials with caution to enhance safety and protect lives and property.