By JKNewsMedia Reporter
FIREFIGHTING CAPACITY at the Ikoyi Federal Fire Service (FFS) Station in Lagos has received a boost following the donation of hoses and gasoline powered water pumps by Fidelity Bank Plc, aimed at strengthening emergency response and supporting sustainable community safety practices.
The donation was carried out under the Fidelity Helping Hands Program (FHHP) and executed by the bank’s True Serve team.
A release notes that the initiative forms part of 00the bank’s ongoing efforts to promote community safety, environmental protection and preventive measures against fire outbreaks within areas it serves.
Through the FHHP, members of staff identify areas of critical need within communities.
Staff then raise funds internally and receive matching monetary support from the bank to implement selected projects.
The donation to the Ikoyi Fire Service Station was delivered through this structure, reinforcing the programme’s focus on grassroots driven intervention.
Commenting on the donation, the Divisional Head of Brand and Communications at Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr Meksley Nwagboh, said the support reflects the bank’s commitment to strengthening emergency response capabilities and improving public safety.
He stated that Fidelity Bank remains committed to initiatives that protect the environment, lives and property.
“Fidelity Bank remains committed to supporting initiatives that contribute to the protection of our environment, lives and property. We see community safety as a shared responsibility and continuously extend support to both corporate bodies and individuals,” Dr Nwagboh said.
He further explained that the bank places emphasis on preventive action, describing it as more effective than reactionary responses.
According to him, the provision of firefighting equipment aligns with the bank’s efforts to drive sustainable practices by equipping first responders with essential tools.
“We believe that preventive measures are far more effective than reactionary responses. This donation is part of our efforts to drive sustainable practices by providing the necessary tools. Our goal is to ensure that people live meaningful, safe, and empowered lives,” he added.
Officials of the FFS acknowledged the donation and spoke on the importance of heightened awareness, particularly during periods associated with increased fire risk.
Also, the Lagos State Controller, FFS and Controller of Fire, Funke Adebayo, commended Fidelity Bank for what she described as timely support.
She cautioned residents to exercise increased vigilance during the festive season, noting that dry weather conditions can contribute to the rapid escalation of fire incidents.
Adebayo urged parents to educate children on fire safety and discourage the use of fireworks during celebrations.
“We appreciate Fidelity Bank for this timely donation. We are in a harsh weather period where fire incidents can escalate quickly. Parents must educate and caution children against the use of fireworks during celebrations. Fire should never be treated carelessly,” she said.
Adebayo also stated that the Fire Service has been carrying out sensitisation visits to corporate organisations.
These visits focus on warning against unsafe practices that could lead to fire outbreaks, with the aim of reducing preventable incidents through awareness and compliance.
The donation was also welcomed by officers at the FFS, Ikoyi, as the Area Commander of the Onikan Fire Station and Chief Superintendent of Fire, Oswere Michael, expressed appreciation to Fidelity Bank for supporting the operations of the Fire Service.
He encouraged families, business owners and community members to prioritise fire safety at all times, stressing that preventing fire incidents requires collective responsibility. He said the equipment provided would enhance the Fire Service’s ability to protect lives and property within the community.
“Everyone has a role to play in preventing fire incidents at home and in the workplace. This support from Fidelity Bank will go a long way in enhancing our capacity to protect the community,” Oswere said.
