N2.5bn worth of properties lost, six injured in Cross River fires

Properties valued at about N2.5 billion were destroyed, and six people were injured in 17 fire outbreaks in Cross River State from January to September 2026.

The State Fire Service Commanding Officer, Olumayowa Olomola, shared this information in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Wednesday in Calabar.

Mrs Olomola mentioned that thankfully, no one died in these incidents, but six houses were burned down.

She explained that the fires happened in various places across the state. These included private homes, the Governor’s Office, a school, a market, a timber shed, a shopping mall, a tanker spill, and an industrial site.

Challenges Facing Fire Service

Mrs Olomola pointed out that there are serious challenges affecting the fire service. She mentioned that inadequate security, a shortage of operational vehicles, and lack of diesel supply are major issues.

The commander said security is a big problem during emergencies. Firefighters do not carry guns and can be at risk of being attacked by crowds when they respond to fires.

She recalled an incident at Goldie Market in Calabar on January 11, where her team was attacked while trying to handle an emergency.

Mrs Olomola also highlighted the lack of enough operational vehicles. She said they need more fire trucks, ambulances, and utility vehicles to respond better to fire emergencies.

The commander urged for a steady and sufficient supply of diesel. This would help their vehicles and equipment to be ready for emergencies.

She believes that solving these problems will improve the fire service's ability to handle fire outbreaks. It will also help to lower the risks of losing lives and properties in the state.