RismadarVoice Reporters
September 16, 2026
An estimated ₦2.5 billion worth of property has been destroyed in 17 fire incidents recorded across Cross River State between January and September 2026, according to the state fire service.
Six people sustained injuries during the incidents, although no deaths were recorded within the period under review.
Commanding Officer of the Cross River State Fire Service, Olumayowa Olomola, disclosed the figures on Wednesday in Calabar.
Olomola said six residential buildings were among the properties affected by fires during the period.
The incidents occurred at several locations and facilities across the state, including private residences, a market, shopping mall, timber shed, educational institution, industrial facility and the Governor’s Office.
A tanker spill was also among the emergencies handled by the service.
FIRE SERVICE RAISES CONCERNS OVER OPERATIONAL CHALLENGES
Olomola identified inadequate operational vehicles, insufficient security protection and irregular diesel supplies as major challenges affecting the ability of firefighters to respond effectively to emergencies.
She said the absence of adequate security during some operations exposed firefighters to potential attacks, particularly in situations where crowds became hostile.
Unlike armed security agencies, firefighters responding to emergencies do not carry weapons, making adequate security support particularly important during potentially volatile incidents.
Olomola recalled an incident in the Goldie Market area of Calabar on January 11 in which fire service personnel were attacked while responding to an emergency.
She said such incidents could complicate rescue operations and place emergency personnel at additional risk while attempting to protect lives and property.
SHORTAGE OF FIRE TRUCKS, AMBULANCES HAMPERS RESPONSE
The commanding officer also identified shortages of essential emergency-response vehicles as another major constraint facing the service.
According to her, additional fire tankers, ambulances and utility vehicles are required to strengthen the agency’s operational capacity across Cross River State.
She also called for adequate and regular supplies of diesel to keep fire engines and other equipment operational and available for immediate deployment.
Emergency response services depend heavily on reliable vehicles and equipment, particularly because delays during fire outbreaks can significantly increase the extent of property damage.
Olomola said addressing the challenges facing the service would improve its ability to respond rapidly to emergencies and reduce losses associated with fire outbreaks across the state.
The figures highlight the economic consequences of fire incidents in Cross River, with billions of naira in property reportedly destroyed within the first months of 2026 despite the absence of recorded fatalities.
