The Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Hon. Dodeye Ikpi Arikpo, has commended personnel of the Cross River State Fire Service for their dedication to duty and swift response to fire incidents across the state.
The Commissioner gave the commendation on Tuesday during an engagement with Fire Service personnel at the Ministry’s headquarters in Calabar.
He acknowledged the critical role of the Fire Service in protecting lives and property, particularly through timely interventions during fire emergencies.
“I appreciate your commitment, sacrifices and professionalism in the discharge of your duties. Your work directly saves lives and property, and government recognizes that” Arikpo said.
Speaking on behalf of the visiting personnel, Mr. Ufuoma Omene of the Airport Fire Service congratulated the Commissioner on his appointment and expressed optimism about his leadership at the Ministry.
He also commended Governor Bassey Otu for his continued commitment to the welfare and development of Cross Riverians.
Mr. Omene, however, highlighted some of the challenges confronting the Fire Service, including the need for regular training of personnel and the repair and maintenance of water trucks, fire trucks and other equipment used in emergency response.
He appealed to the State Government to institute quarterly training programmes to improve the capacity of personnel and ensure regular maintenance of firefighting equipment.
Mr. Omene urged the government to enact legislation to strengthen and empower the Fire Service to effectively carry out its responsibilities and enforce fire-safety regulations.
Responding, Commissioner Arikpo said the Ministry would continue to provide the necessary support and oversight to the Fire Service to improve its operations.
He assured the personnel that attention would be given to training and the maintenance of firefighting equipment, noting that these are important for an effective response to emergencies.
By Gift Otudor
