Ogun GIA Firefighters Complete Specialised Aerodrome Rescue, Firefighting Training
ABEOKUTA – Firefighters attached to the Gateway International Airport (GIA), Ogun State, have successfully completed specialised training in Aerodrome Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) as part of efforts to strengthen the airport’s emergency response capability and enhance aviation safety.
The intensive training was conducted at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Training School in Abuja and the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria. It focused on aircraft firefighting, rescue operations and emergency response procedures in line with international aviation safety standards.
Speaking with journalists, the FAAN Fire Chief at Gateway International Airport, Mr. Akinyode Abayomi, described the training as a key component of the airport’s manpower development programme aimed at equipping operational personnel with the expertise required for modern airport operations.
According to him, the programme lasted two weeks, with one week of classroom sessions at the FAAN Training School in Abuja and another week of practical exercises at NCAT in Zaria.
“Aircraft firefighting is entirely different from structural firefighting. It requires specialised knowledge, technical skills and a high level of professionalism. This training has further equipped our firefighters with the competence needed to respond effectively to aerodrome emergencies,” he said.
Welcoming the officers back, the Airport Manager, Mr. Arogundade Adebowale, said the successful completion of the programme underscored Gateway International Airport’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational excellence.
He noted that continuous training and retraining of personnel remain essential to building a highly skilled workforce capable of protecting lives, aircraft and airport infrastructure during emergencies.
Adebowale added that the airport would continue to prioritise investment in human capital development as part of its vision to position Gateway International Airport as a safe, efficient and globally competitive aviation hub.
He explained that Aerodrome Rescue and Fire Fighting is a specialised airport emergency service designed to provide rapid response to aircraft accidents and incidents, with the primary objective of saving lives and minimising damage to property.
Two of the trained officers, Engr. Idowu Samuel and Mr. Abati Oluwaseun, expressed appreciation for the opportunity to participate in the intensive programme, describing it as a valuable experience that significantly enhanced their professional skills and preparedness for aircraft emergencies.
They also thanked Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, the Ministry of Transportation and the management of Gateway International Airport for sponsoring their participation in the specialised training held in Abuja and Zaria.
