Customs Strengthens Fire Safety Awareness, Boosts Emergency Response Through Sensitisation Training
By Opeyemi Omodara
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Sokoto/Zamfara Area Command has concluded a two-day sensitisation training on fire safety and emergency response, aimed at enhancing officers’ preparedness to prevent and manage fire incidents within and beyond the workplace. The programme was held on Wednesday, 10 to Thursday, 11 December 2025, at the Command’s Operational Headquarters in Sokoto.
In a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer, Assistant Superintendent of Customs I Bashir Tanimu on Friday, 12 December 2025, the initiative was described as part of the Command’s commitment to promoting safety consciousness and strengthening inter-agency collaboration. The training was organised in partnership with the Federal Fire Service, Sokoto State Command.
The workshop featured both classroom lectures and practical demonstrations. Two key papers were presented during the sessions. The first, titled “Introduction to Fire Safety and Basic Fire Prevention,” was delivered by Assistant Superintendent of Fire I Arewa Samson Philip, while the second paper, “Proper Use and Maintenance of Fire Protection Equipment,” was presented by Assistant Superintendent of Fire I Zainab Idris Muhammad. Each presentation was followed by interactive discussions, during which participants raised questions that were adequately addressed by the facilitators.
Speaking during the training, Assistant Superintendent of Fire I, Arewa Samson Philip stressed the importance of early prevention, noting that “most fire incidents can be avoided when basic safety measures are observed and officers remain alert to potential risks in their environment.”
Similarly, Assistant Superintendent of Fire I, Zainab Muhammad emphasised the correct handling of firefighting equipment, stating that “fire extinguishers and other safety tools are only effective when officers understand their proper use and routine maintenance.”
The practical segment, conducted on the second day at the Command premises, was led by Assistant Superintendent of Fire I, Arewa Philip alongside Abubakar Aliyu. Officers were practically guided on the correct use of fire extinguishers and other firefighting equipment, with participants taking turns to demonstrate what they had learned, while facilitators corrected mistakes and provided hands-on guidance.
In his remarks, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Aliyu Ndako, commended the high level of participation and urged officers to take full advantage of the training.
“Fire incidents can occur at any time, both in the workplace and at home,” Comptroller Ndako said. “This training equips our officers with vital skills to prevent such incidents and respond effectively when the need arises.”
He further encouraged participants to cascade the knowledge gained to their colleagues and apply the lessons learned whenever necessary, while expressing hope that such emergencies would be prevented.
Comptroller Ndako reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to continuous capacity building and safety awareness, noting that with proper knowledge, vigilance, and preparedness, officers are better positioned to safeguard lives, facilities, and property, and respond promptly and effectively to emergency situations.
