Kano Fire Service Saves 34 Lives, Protects ₦437m Property in One Month, but 13 Die in Emergencies

Kano Fire Service Saves 34 Lives, Protects ₦437m Property in One Month, but 13 Die in Emergencies

June 8, 2026

The Kano State Fire Service has revealed that it saved 34 lives and protected property worth more than ₦437 million from destruction during emergency operations conducted across the state in May 2026.

Despite the successes recorded, the agency disclosed that 13 people lost their lives in various incidents, including fire outbreaks, road traffic accidents, drowning cases, and well-related emergencies during the same period.

The figures were contained in an operational report released on Monday by the Public Relations Officer of the Kano State Fire Service, Assistant Chief Fire Officer (ACFO) Saminu Abdullahi.

According to the report, firefighters responded to a total of 58 fire incidents, carried out 15 rescue operations, and attended to seven false alarm calls between May 1 and May 31, 2026.

The emergency interventions were coordinated through the agency’s network of 30 fire stations strategically located across the 44 local government areas of Kano State under the leadership of the Director, Alhaji Sani Anas.

The service stated that its personnel remained actively engaged throughout the month, responding to emergencies affecting residential communities, commercial centres, public facilities, and road users across the state.

A breakdown of the statistics showed that while 34 individuals were rescued from life-threatening situations, 13 others sadly lost their lives. The fatalities were linked to incidents involving fires, road crashes, ponds, and uncovered wells.

In addition to the human toll, the report revealed that property valued at approximately ₦144.01 million was destroyed by fire and other emergency incidents during the period under review.

However, the agency noted that swift intervention by firefighters prevented far greater losses, saving properties estimated at ₦437.03 million from destruction.

Speaking on the performance of the service, the Director of the Kano State Fire Service, Alhaji Sani Anas, described the achievements as evidence of the dedication, professionalism, and sacrifice of firefighters working across the state.

“Our personnel remained on duty throughout the month, responding to emergencies across communities in Kano State. The 34 lives saved and the huge value of property preserved demonstrate the importance of prompt emergency response,” he said.

Anas commended the courage and commitment displayed by officers and men of the service while carrying out rescue and firefighting operations, often under difficult and dangerous conditions.

While celebrating the lives saved and property protected, the fire service boss expressed concern over the number of deaths recorded during the month, stressing that many of the incidents could have been prevented through greater public awareness and adherence to basic safety measures.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of 13 lives. Many of these incidents are avoidable if residents observe basic safety measures and promptly report emergencies to the appropriate authorities,” he added.

The director urged residents to embrace a culture of safety by taking preventive measures in homes, markets, offices, schools, and public places.

“Fire safety is everyone’s responsibility. We appeal to members of the public to handle electrical appliances, cooking equipment, and flammable materials with care. Property and lives can be protected when safety measures are strictly observed,” Anas said.

He also raised concerns about the recurring cases involving wells and water bodies, calling on parents, guardians, and community leaders to take proactive steps to secure potentially dangerous locations.

“We have recorded several rescue operations involving wells and water bodies. Parents, guardians, and community leaders should ensure that abandoned wells are covered and dangerous areas properly secured,” he warned.

The Kano State Fire Service further reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening emergency response capabilities, expanding public enlightenment campaigns, and promoting preventive safety practices across the state.

According to the agency, ongoing public awareness initiatives are aimed at educating residents on fire prevention, emergency preparedness, and the importance of promptly reporting incidents to emergency responders.

As Kano continues to experience rapid urban growth and increased commercial activities, the Fire Service emphasized that collaboration between emergency responders and the public remains crucial to reducing fatalities, protecting property, and ensuring safer communities.

“The Kano State Fire Service remains committed to safeguarding lives and property through prompt emergency response, public awareness, and preventive safety measures across the state,” Anas assured.