By Peter Omopo
The National Emergency Management Agency has joined the Federal Fire Service in containing a fire outbreak at Faringada Market in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, NEMA said operatives from its Jos Operations Office, alongside personnel of the Federal Fire Service, responded promptly to the incident and prevented the blaze from spreading to adjoining shops within the densely populated market.
The fire, which broke out at about 6:00 a.m., affected several vehicle spare parts shops. According to NEMA, 20 shops, four containers and two vehicles, including a bus and a Toyota Corolla, were destroyed in the incident.
The agency confirmed that no lives were lost.
NEMA said emergency responders worked swiftly upon arrival to bring the fire under control, thereby minimising further damage and protecting other traders’ properties.
Preliminary findings indicated that the cause of the fire remains unknown, with investigations ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the outbreak. The agency noted that the incident resulted in significant economic losses for affected traders who depend on their businesses for daily income.
A former President of the Market Association, Shehu Ibrahim, commended NEMA and the Federal Fire Service for their rapid intervention, stating that their efforts prevented a more severe disaster.
NEMA also stressed the need for improved fire safety awareness in markets and commercial centres, urging traders to observe safety measures such as proper electrical installations and careful handling of flammable materials to prevent future incidents.
