Abuja: The Federal Fire Service (FFS) FCT Command recently held a mental health awareness workshop emphasizing the importance of maintaining sound mental health for its personnel while ensuring public safety. The initiative is part of efforts to promote not only physical safety but also the mental and emotional well-being of firefighters.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, FFS FCT Controller Mohammed Anas highlighted the critical role of mental health in effective service delivery during the workshop’s opening. Anas stressed that a healthy mind is essential for the demanding job of firefighting and urged participants to engage with medical experts present to learn coping mechanisms for mental challenges associated with their duties.
The FFS has documented cases of personnel struggling with mental health issues due to the traumatic nature of their work environment, which involves exposure to distressing scenes. This pressing concern has led to the organization of the mental health training session to address the psychological needs of the firefighters.
Anas also mentioned that the FFS, with support from the Ministry of Interior, has implemented an active insurance policy to support firefighters’ well-being. Clinical psychologist Comfort Akomalafe emphasized the importance of recognizing and managing emotions in high-stress situations, such as emergencies, to provide effective services.
Dr. Emeka Enumah, a mental health advocate, added that the training aims to equip personnel with strategies to handle everyday stress and build resilience. Enumah noted the significance of empowering security operatives, who are particularly vulnerable to stress, with the necessary skills to maintain mental fitness and resilience in their challenging roles.