Between January and March 2025, Niger State experienced a disturbing rise in fire-related disasters, with 187
reported incidents across both urban and rural communities.
The Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) confirmed the figures, raising concern over property loss
and the lack of preventive measures across several local government areas.
According to Salihu Garba, Director of Relief and Intervention at NSEMA, the fires swept through residential homes,
commercial areas, and business hubs, leaving trails of destruction worth billions of naira. Garba expressed concern
that in most cases, victims lost everything, with little to no property salvaged during the incidents.
While acknowledging the efforts of firefighting agencies in the state, Garba lamented the shortfall in manpower and
equipment. He noted that many local government areas have no fire service presence, further worsening response
times and increasing the severity of the damage.
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The agency attributes the majority of these fire outbreaks to human error and negligence. Issues like faulty electrical
wiring, carelessly handled gas cylinders, and failure to turn off appliances when leaving home were identified as
common causes of these incidents.
Garba called on residents to take proactive steps in protecting their homes and businesses. He emphasized the
importance of using quality electrical materials, installing safety devices, and being cautious with gas use to reduce the risk of fire.
The agency is also advocating for increased investment in fire prevention infrastructure and public awareness
campaigns. As fire outbreaks continue to threaten lives and livelihoods, urgent attention is needed from both the government and the public to curb this rising disaster trend.
