INTERIOR MINISTER SAYS TINUBU’S FIRE SERVICE APPOINTMENT BASED ON MERIT, NOT NEPOTISM
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BY OWOLABI OLUWADARA
The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has announced that President Bola Tinubu’s selection of Olumode Adeyemi as the Director General of the Federal Fire Service (FFS) was determined solely by proficiency and capability, rather than personal connections.
Speaking at Adeyemi’s decoration ceremony on Thursday in Abuja, Tunji-Ojo described the role as “an opportunity only a few ever get” and urged the new CG to deliver results that will stand the test of time.
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He stated that the president does not require personal connections with individuals prior to fulfilling necessary actions, provided that these individuals satisfy the criteria for appointment.
“The President did not consider who you are or whose offspring you are, but rather your competence. He has placed his confidence in you. When you reflect back years from now, ensure you can assert that you served effectively,” the Minister urged.
He advised Adeyemi to prepare for opposition, emphasizing that leadership is grounded in conviction and bravery, rather than popularity.
“You will have my complete support, but do not anticipate unanimous backing from all. If there is a lack of dissent within the system, corruption is likely to prevail,” he cautioned.
Tunji-Ojo characterized the Fire Service as one of Nigeria’s most influential agencies, asserting that every life lost in a fire incident should be regarded as a failure on the part of the agency.
He disclosed that the National Assembly is currently developing a new Fire Service Act to enhance rescue operations and improve efficiency.
“Be the leader, not the follower. Motivate yourself, remain focused, and resist the urge to consistently satisfy everyone. As you perform your duties, God will provide you with strength,” he advised Adeyemi.
Adeyemi, for his part, committed steadfast allegiance to President Tinubu and promised to direct the Service with honor, conscientiousness, and intentional leadership.
Adeyemi conveyed his appreciation to President Tinubu for appointing him to oversee the nation’s fire and rescue organization, characterizing the position as a “significant privilege” that he regards with utmost seriousness.
“I commit my complete allegiance and steadfast dedication to validating this trust through diligent service, integrity, and intentional leadership,” he stated.
The newly appointed head of the FFS also praised the minister for his visionary and transformative leadership, emphasizing that his direction and support had fostered the optimal conditions for growth, reform, and operational excellence within the Service.
Adeyemi expressed his gratitude to the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, and the Secretary of the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), Major General Abdulmalik Jibrin (retd), for their contributions in facilitating his advancement.
He promised to work with all stakeholders to transform the FFS into “a model of efficiency, discipline, and public trust,” while acknowledging the commitment of officers and personnel across the ranks, whom he described as “the backbone of our success.”
The ceremony marked Adeyemi’s formal takeover from former CG, Engr. Abdulganiyu Kaji.
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