Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University in Bauchi State has received a state of the art fire station that was constructed and donated by the North East Development Commission. The facility includes a firefighting truck, staff offices, and a borehole to ensure a steady water supply for emergency operations.
The station is designed to operate around the clock and strengthen safety measures within the university community.
During the handover ceremony, the Minister of State for Regional Development, Hon. Uba Maigari Ahmadu, said the project reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting institutions in the region.
“It is my honour to hand over this facility on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the benefit of the university,” he remarked.
He thanked the President for supporting development commissions and urged members of the university community to take ownership of the project and ensure proper use and maintenance.
According to him, responsible management of public projects assures the government that resources are being used effectively.
The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on the North East Development Commission commended the agency for executing projects that directly improve living and learning conditions in the region.
He said the fire station would help the university respond quickly to emergencies and reduce the risk of major losses.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NEDC, Mohammed Alkali Goni, explained that the project was initiated to protect lives and property in the event of fire incidents.
He advised the university authorities to maintain the facilities to ensure they serve their intended purpose.
While receiving the project, the Vice Chancellor of ATBU, Professor Ibrahim Hassan Garba, expressed appreciation to the commission for the support. He was represented by the University Librarian, Dr Dauda Adamu Bakum.
“This facility strengthens our ability to protect students, staff, and surrounding communities,” he stated during his speech.
He added that the fire station would support emergency response efforts across laboratories, hostels, lecture halls, and other parts of the campus.
The Vice Chancellor assured that the university would integrate the station into its safety plans, training programmes, and community outreach activities.
He also thanked the Bauchi State Government and other stakeholders for their support towards the successful completion of the project.
