…as Works and Fire Service Commissioner assures firemen of befitting work environment soon
…Permanent Secretary exhorts personnel on strict adherence to Civil Service Rules
The Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno has moved to reposition the state fire service.
The Commissioner for Works and Fire Service, Professor Eno Ibanga, made this known as he announced that the state government has taken significant measures aimed at repositioning the State Fire Service to serve both its personnel and the communities across the state.
Speaking at a meeting with officers and men of the Fire Service in the Conference Room of the Ministry, Udo Udoma Avenue, Uyo, Professor Ibanga stressed the importance of unity and collaboration within the department.
He urged staff to maintain formal communication with the Ministry whenever issues arise, noting that effective problem-solving depends on open channels of communication.
Reiterating his commitment to professionalism and discipline, the Commissioner said: “To effectively address our challenges, it is essential that we work together and maintain open lines of communication with the Ministry. This collaborative spirit is vital for the ongoing development of the Fire Service and for resolving any internal concerns.”
Professor Ibanga further revealed that one of the key components of Governor Umo Eno’s vision is the provision of a new State Fire Service Headquarters, assuring that the building designs have been completed and awaiting the Governor’s approval, with construction expected to commence later this year. A move he asserted would reposition the fire service sector in the state.
The proposed headquarters, he noted, will provide a modern and efficient operational base, improve working conditions, and enhance service delivery.
He also emphasized that the appointment of a substantive Head for the Fire Service remains the prerogative of the Governor, exhorting them to abide by the Governor’s directive that Engr Aniefiok Esen continues to serve as Acting Director to ensure smooth transition.
While reiterating that well-supported personnel are critical to the department’s effectiveness, the Commissioner assured of his commitment to addressing their welfare needs and other concerns.
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr Ignatius Ekwere, stated that the Fire Service functions as a Civil Service institution, bound by rules and operational guidelines.
Mr Ekwere charged the personnel to acquaint themselves with the Fire Service Law of 2000 as well as civil service regulations, stressing that strict adherence to these rules and obedience to all organs of the civil service remain sacrosanct.
He assured of management’s readiness to address the concerns of the department while calling for regular meetings and proper information management within the department.
Earlier, the Public Relations Officer of the Fire Service, Mr Emmanuel Udofia, highlighted key issues affecting staff welfare, leadership of the Fire Service and operational challenges.
He appealed to the management of the Ministry to duly address their concerns to enhance effective service delivery.
The meeting ended on a positive note with a vote of thanks from Engr Samuel Ekamba, Commander of Ibiono Ibom Fire Station, who appreciated the Commissioner and management for the audience and pledged to relay the reassurances to his colleagues.
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