Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has commenced the construction of a modern fire service station in Umuahia, signalling a new era of infrastructure renewal and public safety enhancement in the state capital.

The development follows the demolition of the old and dilapidated fire service structure, which had served the state for decades without proper facilities or modern equipment.

Speaking during an inspection visit, officials of the Abia State Fire Service expressed excitement over the project, describing it as a long-awaited transformation that would boost emergency response and improve the welfare of fire personnel.

Chief Fire Officer of Abia State, Architect Awa, hailed Otti’s commitment to prioritizing the safety of lives and property through the rebuilding of a befitting fire service headquarters.

“What we are witnessing today is the beginning of a new era. For years, we worked in an environment that was unfit for our operations, but Governor Otti has shown true leadership by approving a modern station for the Fire Service. This will motivate our men and improve our efficiency,” he said.

He commended the Special Adviser to the Governor on Homeland Security, Mr. Chukwunenye Alajemba, for his active role in ensuring the realization of the project, describing the new initiative as “a practical demonstration of the Governor’s New Abia vision.”

Also speaking, the Commanding Officer of Umuahia Fire Service Station, Ikediuwa Chinonyerem, and the Chief Fire Superintendent in charge of Government House, Okezie Uche, described the Governor’s gesture as unprecedented in the history of Abia.

“No administration before now ever thought of rebuilding the Fire Service headquarters. This move by Governor Otti has restored our dignity and confidence as firefighters,” they noted.

Engineer Ebele Nta, Commanding Officer of Aba Fire Station, said the ongoing project would not only benefit Umuahia but also serve as a model for other parts of the state.

“We believe that what is happening in Umuahia today will soon be replicated in Aba and across the state. It is a new dawn for the Fire Service in Abia,” he said.

The Chief Fire Prevention Officer, Chukwuemeka Okezie, who has served in the Fire Service for over two decades, described the demolition and reconstruction as historic.

“In my 20 years in service, no government has ever done this. Governor Otti has broken the jinx and given us a reason to be proud of our profession again,” he stated.

The new Fire Service Station, when completed, is expected to feature modern facilities, operational offices, water supply systems, and equipment bays designed to support rapid response to emergencies across the state.

Observers say the project reflects Governor Otti’s broader agenda to rebuild critical institutions, enhance public safety, and ensure that state agencies operate in environments that meet global standards. (The PUNCH)