By Abbanobi -Eku Onyeka
Abuja
The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has charged the newly appointed Controller-General (CG) of the Federal Fire Service (FFS), Olumode Adeyemi, to demonstrate courage and integrity in his leadership, even when faced with unpopular decisions. Adeyemi, who was previously the Deputy Controller-General, was sworn in as the new CG of the FFS on Thursday at the Ministry, effective immediately, following the retirement of Alhaji Jaji Abdulganiyu.
During the decoration ceremony at the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) office in Abuja, Tunji-Ojo emphasized that Adeyemi’s appointment by President Bola Tinubu was based solely on his competence and capability. The minister warned that leadership is about responsibility, not seeking approval, and that Adeyemi would be judged by his performance.
“You have been given an opportunity that only a few people have had. Please take it upon yourself to write your script,” Tunji-Ojo said. “One day, after many years, you will be sitting where Jaji is now. But the question is, when you sit and look back, will you say you have done well?”
Tunji-Ojo pledged his full support to Adeyemi but cautioned him to expect resistance in carrying out his duties. “Let me tell you, you will have 100% support from me, but don’t expect 100% support from your men. If you have 100% support, you will never do the right thing,” he said.
The minister stressed that leadership demands conviction and integrity, not popularity. “Leadership is not a popularity contest. It is not about who likes or hates you. Leadership is a conviction of purpose, responsibility, and the courage to act in the best interest of others, even when it’s difficult,” he said.
Tunji-Ojo highlighted the crucial role of the Fire Service in Nigeria’s public safety architecture, saying, “Fire Service is one of the most impactful agencies in this country. Every time there’s a fire incident and rescue operation and someone dies, it’s a failure on the Fire Service. Your job is to prevent fire — you are as important to life as oxygen can be.”
In his acceptance speech, Adeyemi expressed gratitude to God, President Tinubu, and the Minister of Interior for the confidence reposed in him. He pledged his total loyalty and unwavering commitment to justifying this confidence through diligent service, integrity, and purposeful leadership.
Adeyemi also acknowledged the immediate past CG, Abdulganiyu, and other stakeholders, and pledged to work with them to transform the Federal Fire Service into a “model of efficiency, discipline, and public trust.”
Adeyemi formally took over from his predecessor on Wednesday, August 13, at the FFS Headquarters in Abuja, where he praised Abdulganiyu’s contributions and pledged to seek his counsel when necessary
