Senator Ireti Kingibe, who represents the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has called for stronger enforcement of fire safety regulations following the recent fire outbreak at the Kugbo Furniture Market in Abuja.
The senator described the incident as disturbing, saying it highlights the continued vulnerability of markets and the livelihoods of thousands of hardworking Nigerians.
In a statement, Kingibe expressed sympathy for traders who lost their businesses and investments in the fire. She, however, stressed that the incident should also prompt authorities to examine how well existing fire safety regulations are being implemented.
“The fire incident at the Kugbo Furniture Market in Abuja is deeply concerning, particularly because incidents of this nature continue to expose the vulnerability of our markets and the livelihoods of hardworking Nigerians.
“While my thoughts are with the traders whose businesses and investments have been affected, this incident also calls for us to look beyond the immediate response and examine the effectiveness of our existing fire safety framework.
“Nigeria already has regulations governing fire prevention, safety equipment and emergency response.
“The question is how effectively these standards are being implemented and enforced, particularly in markets and other high risk commercial areas.
“There is also a need for continued legislative attention to modernising our fire and rescue framework, strengthening prevention, improving emergency response capacity, and ensuring that fire-safety standards are consistently enforced.
“The safety of lives, protection of property and preservation of livelihoods must remain central to our approach to fire safety across the FCT and Nigeria,” she said.
The lawmaker urged relevant authorities to strengthen fire prevention measures and improve emergency response systems across the country, especially in busy commercial centres where fire outbreaks often result in heavy losses.
Fire incidents have remained a major challenge in many markets across Nigeria, destroying goods worth millions of naira and affecting the means of livelihood of traders. Stakeholders have repeatedly called for better safety measures, regular inspections, improved access to firefighting equipment and greater public awareness to reduce the risk of future disasters.
Senator Kingibe said improving fire safety standards and ensuring strict compliance would help protect lives, safeguard investments and preserve businesses across the Federal Capital Territory and the country.
