The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department (FEMD) has raised concern over the increasing circulation of substandard and counterfeit fire extinguishers in Abuja and has called for urgent collaboration with the Transport Secretariat to tackle the growing threat.
Acting Director General of FEMD, Engr. Abdulrahman Mohammed, issued the warning while introducing the newly inaugurated Nigeria Fire Extinguisher Control (NFEC) and Gas Explosion Prevention System (GEPS) teams during a visit to the FCT Transport Secretariat.
Mohammed detailed how some individuals manipulate expired fire extinguishers to appear functional—either by repressurizing them to show a false green gauge or filling them with inadequate or even flammable materials.
“In some cases, these fraudsters use as little as 0.25kg of dry chemical powder in extinguishers designed to hold 0.9kg in a 10kg unit,” he revealed. “This is a direct violation of the Nigerian Industrial Standards and poses a serious danger to lives and property.”
The Acting DG stressed the vital role that NFEC and GEPS will play in ensuring public safety, especially in the transport sector, where working fire extinguishers are essential for emergency response.
Reacting to the initiative, Mandate Secretary of the FCT Transport Secretariat, Barrister Chinedum Elechi, described the situation as alarming and pledged full support for the effort.
“It’s disheartening to see vehicles burning on the road while people stand helplessly with non-functional fire extinguishers,” he said. “We’re open to any idea that enhances public safety, and we fully support this collaboration.”
Also speaking at the event, NFEC/GEPS Coordinator, Mr. Benson Olatunji, emphasized the need for widespread sensitization, enforcement, and proper vendor training across the fire extinguisher and LPG value chain.
“These unsafe practices are not only dangerous but pose a serious national security threat,” he stated. “This is a life-saving intervention, and everyone must come on board to create a safer society.”
