President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Jaji Olumode as the new Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service (FFS), marking a significant leadership change in one of Nigeria’s key emergency response agencies.

The appointment, which was confirmed in a statement released by the Presidency on Tuesday, takes immediate effect. Olumode replaces Abdulganiyu Jaji, who retired after a distinguished career in public service.

According to the statement signed by Presidential Spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, Olumode’s appointment is part of President Tinubu’s ongoing efforts to reposition the nation’s emergency and disaster management architecture.

“President Tinubu expects the new Controller-General to bring professionalism, efficiency, and innovation to the Federal Fire Service, and to continue the administration’s drive to enhance public safety infrastructure across the country,” the statement read.

Until his appointment, Olumode served as Deputy Controller in charge of Operations, where he led several major emergency response missions, earning recognition for his strategic handling of high-risk fire incidents in Lagos, Abuja, and Kano.

Reacting to the news, stakeholders in the fire and emergency services sector welcomed the appointment, citing Olumode’s years of experience, dedication to service, and understanding of the structural challenges facing the agency.

“We believe his leadership will strengthen the Fire Service and improve our national response capacity,” said Dr. Musa Bako, President of the Nigerian Safety and Emergency Practitioners Forum.

The new Controller-General is expected to focus on modernizing firefighting equipment, enhancing personnel training, and expanding fire safety awareness nationwide.

As Nigeria continues to grapple with increasing incidents of urban fire outbreaks and industrial emergencies, Olumode’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to boost the nation’s preparedness and response framework.