The Federal Capital Territory Fire Service says the operational framework of the fire router system is undergoing a comprehensive administrative and technical review for a possible upgrade to improve efficiency.

The director of the service, Zaccheaus Adebayo, disclosed this while briefing journalists in Abuja on Tuesday. Mr Adebayo said that the news conference was to inform the public and all subscribers using the fire router system about the ongoing administrative and technical review.

He said that the router was introduced in collaboration with a technical service provider, Prime Alert Secure Ltd, in 2024, as part of the FCT Fire Emergency Monitoring Gateway project.

He explained that the router allowed real-time fire detection, instant alert transmissions to control rooms, and drastically reduced response times. According to him, the review is to ensure the continued operation of the systems in line with the fire service’s strategic objectives, operational standards, and the overall public interest.

Mr Adebayo added that the routers were produced some years ago and needed to be upgraded to better serve residents in light of current developments in the technology space.

”We want to match up with this development. So we may replace some devices that hibernate for a short period of time with new ones to ensure optimal service and value for money. Therefore, existing users are kindly advised to retain their installed fire router devices pending further official guidance from the service,” Mr Adebayo said.

The FCT fire director advised members of the public to exercise patience as service continuity and future operational arrangements were being carefully evaluated.

He added that subscribers whose subscriptions were approaching renewal should seek clarification through the FCT fire service’s official communication channels before entering into long-term subscription commitments.

Mr Adebayo urged the public to continue reporting fire emergencies without hesitation, stressing that emergency fire reporting and response services remained fully operational.

He appealed for substantial institutional support and greater government attention to enable the service to deliver on its mandate and better serve FCT residents.

Mr Adebayo stressed the need to modernise and replace ageing operational equipment and firefighting appliances that have served beyond their optimal operational lifespan.

He also appealed for increased funding to strengthen emergency preparedness, improve operational efficiency, maintain equipment, and expand fire prevention programmes.

He further called for continuous capacity development and specialised local and international training for firefighters to equip them with modern firefighting techniques, rescue operations, hazardous materials management, and emergency response strategies.

He assured residents of the service commitment to professionalism, transparency, innovation, and continuous improvement.

(NAN)