‎Nigeria’s National Fire Academy to Become Continental Training Centre

‎Nigeria’s National Fire Academy to Become Continental Training Centre
‎Noted that the academy will train fire officers from other countries as well as paramilitary personnel
‎The upgraded academy is expected to enhance the capacity of the Federal Fire Service

‎The Federal Government has announced plans to upgrade the National Fire Academy in Sheda, Federal Capital Territory, into a world-class training institute aimed at reducing the high costs associated with sending personnel abroad for capacity-building programs.

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‎Eko Hot Blog reports that the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the disclosure during an inspection of the ongoing construction at the academy in Abuja.

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He noted that once completed, the academy will train fire officers from other countries as well as paramilitary personnel, positioning the facility as a hub for revenue generation and professional development.

‎Tunji-Ojo explained: “We are creating a world-class fire academy capable of delivering high-quality training on professionalism, emergency response, management, and rescue services. Currently, the academy sits on 10 hectares, and we are working with the area council and traditional institutions to acquire an additional 13 hectares, expanding it to 23 hectares.”

‎He added that the academy is approximately 60–65 percent completed and is expected to be fully operational by May 2026. “This project is significant for the administration. Capacity training is key, and in this era, the fire service encompasses more than fighting fires, it includes emergency response and rescue operations,” the minister said.

‎Nigeria’s National Fire Academy to Become Continental Training Centre — Dr. Olubunmi Tunji Ojo

‎Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service, Olumode Adeyemi, highlighted the academy’s unique facilities, including Africa’s first specialized firehouse for search and rescue drills. He also noted that the academy can accommodate up to 3,000 participants at a time, reinforcing its potential as a premier training centre.

‎Chairman of Kwali Area Council, Danladi Chiya, praised the collaboration between local authorities and the federal government, noting that arrangements for the additional 13 hectares are underway. “We have agreed to support the project, and the survey work and compensations will soon be concluded,” he said.

‎The upgraded academy is expected to enhance the capacity of the Federal Fire Service, support private sector training, and reduce capital flight previously associated with overseas training programs.