In response to the recent devastating fire that swept through the Onitsha Main Market, PPC Limited—formerly known as Philips Projects Centre and a leading name in Nigeria’s engineering and infrastructure space—has called for urgent action to improve fire safety standards in buildings nationwide.
The fire incident, which resulted in the destruction of goods worth millions of naira and caused extensive damage, has once again highlighted serious shortcomings in fire prevention and emergency response capabilities in both commercial and residential structures.
Chuma Madu, Head of Building Services Engineering at PPC, stressed the need for a nationwide commitment to building safety. “Fire protection systems are not mere formalities—they are essential tools for preventing disasters and reducing losses during emergencies,” he said.
PPC Limited, known for its expertise in building services engineering, designs, installs, and maintains advanced fire protection systems. These include fire alarms, smoke detectors, sprinklers, fire suppression systems, and comprehensive safety strategies tailored to various building types.
Madu emphasized that taking a proactive approach to fire safety is critical, especially in densely populated and high-traffic environments like markets, shopping centers, and residential estates. He advocated for the integration of early-warning systems, fire-resistant materials, and well-rehearsed evacuation plans as standard safety measures.
He further urged collaboration among government bodies, developers, consultants, and property owners to enforce strict adherence to fire safety regulations. “The tragedy at Onitsha Main Market is a wake-up call. Ensuring fire protection should be a top priority for anyone involved in the construction and maintenance of buildings. It’s not just about compliance—it’s about saving lives, protecting property, and ensuring the resilience of our urban environments,” Madu stated.
