The Federal Fire Service has introduced a nationwide mandatory Fire Warden Training and Certification Programme for organisations that receive an average of 50 or more persons daily.

The initiative aims to strengthen fire safety and emergency preparedness across the country.

The programme was announced in a joint statement by the Commandant of the National Fire Academy and the Managing Director of Pilgrims Integrated Management Consult Ltd. It is designed to equip organisations with trained in-house fire wardens who can serve as first responders during emergencies.

Officials noted that fire outbreaks remain a leading cause of preventable loss of lives and property in Nigeria. They said the absence of trained responders often leads to delayed action, poor evacuation, injuries, and extensive damage.

Under the programme, organisations must nominate one fire warden for every 50 staff members, occupants, students, worshippers, customers, or average daily users.

All nominated personnel are required to undergo the prescribed training and obtain certification from the Federal Fire Service.

Registration has already begun, with the first phase of training scheduled to start on August 31, 2026, beginning in Lagos. Facilities that fail to comply may face sanctions under the Federal Fire Service Act, including possible sealing of unsafe premises.

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