Completion of board elections for fire protection body

On June 19, 2023, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) concluded its board of directors’ election at its annual meeting. The event was significant, marking the inclusion of esteemed new members and the re-election of an established leader.

New member brings international experience to the table

Brigadier General Mohamed Abdulla Al-Nuaimi from the Civil Defense, UAE, was a standout inductee. His exceptional career record in fire protection and safety will be an asset to the board. Since 2014, he has served as the Director General of the Department of Fire, Protection, and Safety Affairs at the General Command of Civil Defense in the UAE. His substantial contributions there have involved influencing key policies on Civil Defense Centre classification based on response time and speciality areas. He has also been instrumental in ensuring readiness in fire combat.

After earning a Bachelor’s degree in Legal and Police Sciences from United Arab Emirates University, Al-Nuaimi began his professional journey at the Dubai Civil Defense Centers. His initial role as a fire and rescue officer eventually led him to his current role within the General Directorate of Civil Defense.

Onieal continues his term for a second spell

The re-election of Denis Onieal, the former US Deputy Fire Administrator, was another noteworthy event. Onieal will now serve the NFPA board for a second three-year term, leveraging his deep experience within the American fire administration.

Acclaim and honours for new appointee

Al-Nuaimi’s industry contributions have attracted widespread recognition. The Brigadier General has received numerous awards, such as the Fireland Magazine Award for Best Practices in Fire and Emergency Affairs and the 2020 Middle East Excellence Award in the Community Security, Safety, and Protection Category.

His tenure in the service has also seen him serve on various committees: “He has been the chairman of the Standing Committee for the Evaluation and Development of the Readiness and Efficiency of the Civil Defense Sector, and a member of the Standing Committee for the Development of Civil Defense Centers in Abu Dhabi,” the NFPA stated. Al-Nuaimi also presided over the NFPA Advisory Committee for the Middle East and North Africa.