The Borno State Fire Service has expressed concern over the challenge of inadequate staff affecting it effective operations.
The State Director Fire Service, Umaru Warabe who made this known in an interview in Maiduguri, said the service has procured enough fire trucks for the service but there are no drivers.
“We have 48 trucks but no manpower, particularly drivers.
“Goverment need to recruit drivers; the few drivers we have now are just volunteers.
“In fact, the last time the service recruited staff was in 1989 and most of them have retired,” Warabe said.
Warabe also urged government to do something about thier welfare, pointing out that the service still pay only N50 monthly as hazard allowance.
“We also need at least two vehicles for evacuation of casualties,” Warabe said.
He however said that despite the challenges, the service has been doing it best to contain emergencies, particularly fire outbreaks, and has sub stations across the city in strategic places like Government House, 777 housing unit, Shehu’s palace and Monday Market.
“We also have functional stations in Biu, Askira and Monguno towns,” Warabe said.
He explained that last year, the service recieved 268 emergency calls and saved 170 lives with properties worth N14 billion.
“However, 56 lives and property worth N4 billion was lost last year,” Warabe said.
