As the harmattan season approaches, Kaduna State has issued a red alert over the growing threat of fire outbreaks, citing 306 incidents in 2025 that claimed ten lives, injured 48 people and destroyed property worth about N6.4 billion.
The state government’s fire statistics show a decline from 523 incidents in 2019, but the average of roughly 300 fires per year over the past three years remains a serious concern for emergency services and residents alike.
Co‑director of the Kaduna State Climate Change Accountability Mechanism (KADCCAM), Ibrahima Yakubu, warned that dry vegetation, low humidity and dusty winds can turn minor sparks into devastating blazes. He urged farmers, hunters, traders, households and business owners to handle fire, cooking equipment and electrical appliances responsibly, avoid bush burning and cigarette butts, keep flammable materials away from heat sources, and maintain clear access roads and emergency exits.
“Fire prevention should be regarded as a collective responsibility rather than a duty left exclusively to firefighters and emergency response agencies,” said Deputy Governor Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe at the opening ceremony of the 2026 National Fire Week. “Most of these incidents could be prevented through responsible behaviour, compliance with safety regulations and the adoption of simple but effective fire prevention measures.”
Deputy Governor Balarabe also called on households to inspect electrical installations, avoid overloading sockets and turn off appliances before bed, and on businesses to keep fire extinguishers functional, provide accessible exits and conduct regular fire‑safety training. The call underscores the need for a safety‑conscious society to protect lives, property and the environment during the dry season.
<small>Source: The Sun Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
