The Ondo State Government and the Federal Fire Service are partnering to ensure that the state owns enough fire trucks to combat fire outbreaks.
The State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Mr Saka Ogunleye, made this known on Thursday when a delegation of the federal fire service visited him in his office.
Ogunleye commended the federal agency for being proactive in responding to the letter sent by Gov. Rotimi Akeredolu for assistance.
The commissioner said the Ondo state government had to make the clarion call as the state was finding it difficult to cope with rising fire-related incidences across the state.
According to him, when the governor sent the appeal to the federal fire service in Abuja, it was borne out of his genuine desire to get federal assistance on the rising cases of inferno.
“We are happy that you are here, as your coming has changed the picture altogether.
“Collaboration and cooperation between the federal, state and local governments are inevitable for the government at all levels to meet the yearnings and aspirations of the people.
“By working together, we shall render assistance to all,” he said.
The Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mr Taiwo Otun, expressed hope that the new fire truck would complement the old ones the ministry possessed.
Otun said the ministry always enjoyed good rapport with the fire agency before now and excited to see the support coming to fruition, as the fire truck request would be delivered to the state soon as promise by the federal fire service.
Assistant Controller-General of the federal fire services, Dr Callistus Agwu, who led the team, said the team was in the state to visit the various stations to see conditions of available fire trucks and carry out repair works where necessary to make them functional.
Agwu added that they were to also update the government about the assistance requested for a new fire truck.
“The federal government has purchased a new fire truck for the state.
“It is the latest version and has 46 ancillary equipment to enable it to perform the task of battling fire outbreaks in the state.
“Very soon, it will be delivered,” Agwu said.
