The Federal Fire Service (FFS) Command in the Federal Capital Territory has launched a programme to educate firefighters on mental health and emotional stability while carrying out their duties.
Naijaonpoint reports that the four-day workshop, which began on Monday at the Kubwa Metropolitan Fire Station, was designed to help officers maintain sound mental health in the face of work-related stress and trauma.
The Orientation and Mental Health Awareness programme brought together officers and men of the command for training led by medical professionals.
During the opening session, the FCT Controller of the FFS, Mohammed Anas, said the initiative was created to help firefighters understand the importance of maintaining a healthy mind while performing their duties.
He said that the job often exposes them to distressing scenes, which can affect their emotional wellbeing.
Anas explained that the command had observed some officers struggling with mental health challenges due to repeated exposure to tragic incidents while saving lives and property.
This, he said, prompted the training aimed at helping personnel develop coping mechanisms and psychological balance.
He also revealed that through the Ministry of Interior, the FFS had introduced an active insurance policy to support firefighters and improve their welfare.
During the workshop, clinical psychologist Comfort Akomafe advised participants to understand their emotions and learn practical ways to manage them during emergencies.
She explained that being able to stay calm and think clearly in tense situations is vital to effective firefighting.
A mental health advocate, Dr. Emeka Enumah, added that the training sought to strengthen the emotional resilience of security operatives, who often face stressful and high-risk situations.
He said the goal was to equip them with the skills needed to remain mentally strong while handling daily challenges.
The programme is part of the FFS’s ongoing effort to promote the wellbeing of its personnel and ensure effective service delivery to the public.
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