The Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC) commemorated this year’s International Firefighters’ Day with a colourful ceremony and renewed commitment to strengthening fire safety within the hospital environment.
The event commenced with the convergence of fire service officers in front of the Administrative Building, adorned with banners and accompanied by a band. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Medical Director, Prof. John Okeniyi, commended the officers for their dedication and urged them to remain steadfast in their duties.
Activities formally began as the firefighters marched in procession from the Administrative Building to the Small Auditorium, accompanied by a band and an ambulance. A symbolic ritual was observed, followed by a minute of silence in honour of fallen firefighters.
In his opening remarks, Prof. Okeniyi celebrated the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of firefighters, describing them as a beacon of hope. He emphasized that the occasion goes beyond a mere calendar event, noting that it serves as a solemn reminder of the invaluable service rendered by those who confront danger while others flee.
Highlighting this year’s theme, “Protecting Lives Inside the Hospital: Fire Prevention as Clinical Responsibility,” the CMD reaffirmed management’s commitment to safety. He disclosed that the hospital recorded three fire outbreaks in 2023 and thirteen in 2024, with a noticeable reduction in 2025. He recalled a period when only three fire service officers were responsible for safeguarding a workforce of over 5,000 across five locations, stressing that such a situation was inadequate. He expressed gratitude for the improved manpower and encouraged officers to remain brave, disciplined, and compassionate.
Prof. Okeniyi also announced that the hospital’s fire service vehicle has been refurbished and is now fully operational, enhancing emergency response capacity. He urged the officers to remain vigilant and continue delivering excellent service.
In his remarks, the Director of Administration, Dr Ayodeji Bobade, appreciated the CMD for his proactive support of the fire service unit, particularly the rehabilitation of the service vehicle. He assured staff that their welfare remains a top priority and promised that newly recruited officers would soon receive their uniforms.
The guest speaker, Mr Bukola Popoola, delivered a lecture on the theme, focusing on fire prevention strategies and emergency preparedness in hospital settings. He noted that smoke, rather than flames, is often the primary cause of fatalities and property damage during fire incidents.
Mr. Popoola described hospitals as high-risk environments due to the presence of oxygen, chemicals, electrical equipment, and vulnerable patients. He emphasized that fire prevention in hospitals is not merely a safety protocol but an essential component of patient care.
According to him, early detection whether through automated smoke detectors or manual observation can prevent minor incidents from escalating. He stressed that containment should take precedence over evacuation, with evacuation carried out only when absolutely necessary. He also highlighted the importance of rapid response, including rescuing those in immediate danger and activating alarm systems promptly.
In his concluding remarks, the guest speaker recommended regular refresher training for fire officers, the development of robust emergency action plans, and collaboration with external emergency agencies. He noted that the most effective fire is the one that never starts.
The commemoration underscored OAUTHC’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, while reinforcing the critical role of fire prevention as an integral part of healthcare delivery.
