Vice President Dr. John Dramani Mahama, on Wednesday called on personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) to demonstrate commitment in fighting fires to justify government’s huge investment in the service.

He said though fire service was so crucial and integral to the security machinery of government, the objectives of their establishment would not be achieved without dedication to their duties and responsibilities to the people of Ghana.

Vice President Mahama made the call when inaugurating 30 new Nissan Pick-ups for the personnel in Accra.

The vehicles formed part of 50 pick-ups government promised to present to the service after presenting 90 fire tenders and other equipment to facilitate their work across the country a year ago.

Vice President Mahama promised that government would continue to resource the service to perform its duties efficiently and urged them to work hard to reduce the high spate of fire outbreaks in the country.

“Your work is risky and dangerous and we as a government therefore need to equip you effectively to carry out your mandate everywhere in the country,” he added.

Brigadier John Bosco Guyiri, Acting Chief Fire Officer, said the vehicles would empower them to step up fire safety education, which would subsequently reduce the high incidence of fire outbreaks in the country.

He said the service would be celebrating its 50th Anniversary next year and the presentation was timely for them to execute their duties effectively for the celebration.

The Acting Chief Fire Officer appealed to corporate bodies to complement efforts of government, to equip them to perform their duties effectively.

Mr. William Kwasi Aboah, Minister of the Interior, commended personnel of the service for their efficient discharge of duties even in the face of numerous challenges.**