Your Potbelly Won’t Fit in Firefighting Gear, FFS Warns Recruits

According to officials, bulky or overweight applicants not only put themselves at risk but also endanger their colleagues and the lives of those they are meant to save. For this reason, the service stressed that physical fitness is a non-negotiable requirement for anyone hoping to join its ranks.

Beyond physical health, the FFS also highlighted the importance of mental resilience. Firefighting often involves high-stress situations, quick decision-making, and teamwork in life-or-death scenarios. The agency urged recruits to cultivate discipline, mental alertness, and emotional stability, as these are essential traits for managing emergencies effectively.

The FFS recruitment exercise has attracted thousands of applications from across the country. With the shortlist expected soon, officials are using this opportunity to caution applicants that the selection process will be rigorous. Candidates will undergo fitness tests, medical screenings, and psychological evaluations to ensure they meet the high standards required for the profession.

An FFS spokesperson explained that firefighting is not an office job but a frontline service where every second counts. He warned that candidates must begin preparing now, especially through exercise, healthy dieting, and endurance training, to avoid disappointment during the screening stage.

The bluntness of the warning “potbelly won’t fit in firefighting gear” has sparked widespread reactions on social media. While some praised the agency’s honesty, others criticized the phrasing as harsh. However, many agreed that the message is clear: only those who are physically and mentally prepared can succeed as firefighters.

A number of Nigerians also used the opportunity to call for more investment in fire service infrastructure, modern equipment, and better welfare for firefighters, noting that fitness alone is not enough to solve the broader challenges facing the service.

Experts in the field of emergency response stress that fire incidents often involve carrying victims, handling heavy hoses, and working in hazardous environments with limited visibility. Excess body weight or poor stamina can limit mobility and slow down response time, which could cost lives in critical situations.

Firefighting gear itself, including helmets, oxygen tanks, and protective suits, can weigh up to 25 kilograms. Without proper physical conditioning, recruits may struggle to perform even basic duties during emergencies.

As the anticipation for the recruitment shortlist builds, the FFS has made it clear that the process will filter out individuals who do not meet its physical and mental standards. The message serves both as a caution and as motivation for applicants to begin preparing themselves immediately.

For aspiring firefighters, the takeaway is simple: fitness is not optional  it is part of the job description. Those who ignore this warning may find themselves unable to wear the uniform or bear the weight of responsibility that comes with it.

The recruitment shortlist is expected to be released in the coming weeks, after which screenings will commence nationwide.