Abia Begins Construction of Modern Fire Service Headquarters in Umuahia

The Abia State Government has begun constructing a modern fire service headquarters in Umuahia, a key part of Governor Alex Otti’s reforms aimed at strengthening emergency response infrastructure across the state.

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Homeland Security, Fire, and Emergency Services, Mr. Chukwunenye Alajemba, disclosed this to journalists on Tuesday in Umuahia.

According to Alajemba, the new project, ordered by Governor Otti, will replace the old and dilapidated fire station that had served the state for decades.

> “The Governor has resolved that Abia’s emergency services should be second to none. The old station was falling apart and had never been maintained, so he ordered its demolition,” Alajemba said.

He explained that the new complex would serve as a fully integrated emergency headquarters capable of housing 10 fire trucks, a mini medical emergency clinic, and a high-tech communication and dispatch centre.

> “The system we’re designing will allow us to track incidents in real time using drones and satellite technology. Hospitals will also be alerted to prepare for emergencies even before patients arrive,” he added.


Alajemba noted that the facility would operate a comprehensive response network connecting emergency calls to nearby hospitals, ambulances, and fire units, the first of its kind in Abia State.

> “If there’s an accident involving a bone fracture, for example, we can instantly locate the nearest orthopaedic hospital and inform them while the ambulance is en route,” he explained.



He further revealed that the state government had ordered new firefighting trucks to enhance capacity.

> “About two new trucks are expected before December, with more to follow as funds become available,” he stated.


Alajemba emphasised that the project is fully funded by the Abia State Government and will play a critical role in safeguarding the state’s growing infrastructure and investments.

> “The Governor’s investments across Abia require a strong and modern emergency response system to protect lives, property, and public confidence,” he said.


He also urged residents to support the government’s safety initiatives by equipping their homes and businesses with certified fire extinguishers.

> “A fire can destroy a place within minutes. If you can stop it early, you prevent disaster,” he advised.


Alajemba expressed optimism that with Governor Otti’s commitment, Abia would soon boast one of the most responsive and technologically advanced emergency systems in Nigeria.

> “We are building a service that will rival what you see in advanced countries,” he said.


The project contractor, Mr. Munachiso Okorocha, said the building was designed to meet international standards and accommodate up to 10 fire trucks.

> “At any time, at least seven or eight trucks will be ready to respond to emergencies,” Okorocha said.


He explained that the two-storey structure was engineered to support the heavy weight of fire trucks and other equipment.

> “The structural design takes into account both dead and live loads because these vehicles are extremely heavy,” he added.

Okorocha stated that the construction is expected to last 28 weeks, with completion projected for the first quarter of 2026.

> “We aim to finish ahead of schedule, provided there’s consistent funding. The government’s commitment gives us confidence that we will deliver quality work on time,” he assured.