Korede Abdullah 
LAGOS, Nigeria – The Lagos State Government will begin demolishing the fire-damaged Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) House on Thursday, nearly 10 months after a deadly Christmas Eve inferno destroyed goods, damaged adjoining structures and raised concerns about public safety on Lagos Island.
The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) announced the planned demolition in a public safety advisory issued on Wednesday, saying structural assessments had established that the 25-storey commercial building posed a significant risk to the public.
LASEMA Permanent Secretary Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu said authorities had approved the demolition following assessments by relevant agencies. “This necessary action has been approved after thorough structural assessment by relevant agencies which confirmed that the building poses a significant risk to public safety,” he stated.
The agency said it would cordon off the surrounding area and restrict access during the operation to protect residents, traders, motorists and emergency personnel.
Oke-Osanyintolu urged members of the public to avoid the demolition zone, cooperate with emergency responders and use alternative routes. He also warned that the exercise could cause traffic diversions, noise and dust.
The demolition follows the December 24, 2025, fire that engulfed the building in one of Lagos Island’s busiest commercial districts. The area accommodates traders selling clothing materials, shoes, bags and other merchandise. Parts of the structure collapsed during the inferno, trapping occupants. At least three bodies were recovered, while several people sustained injuries.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu ordered the building’s demolition after visiting the scene on December 25, expressing concern about the destruction and the history of fire incidents associated with the property.
The state government subsequently directed occupants and businesses operating around the building to vacate the area over concerns that the damaged structure could threaten neighbouring properties.
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Oluwatobi Adu