Korede Abdullah 
LAGOS, Nigeria – The Lagos State Government orders the immediate evacuation of residents and businesses around the burnt 25-storey Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) Building on Martins Street, Lagos Island, following a devastating fire outbreak.
The directive follows a safety assessment conducted after the inferno that gutted the building on December 24, raising fears of structural failure and further danger to surrounding properties.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotoso, says Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu approves the evacuation to prevent loss of lives and property.
“The government sent in experts who evaluated the site of the fire and warned strongly against the inherent danger to lives and property within a 100-metre radius,” Omotoso says. “Several buildings around the scene are structurally compromised and must be evacuated.”
He warns shop owners and residents against violating the restricted zone, stressing that continued presence in the area poses serious safety risks.
Meanwhile, the state government also announces the cancellation of the 2025 Greater Lagos Fiesta, previously scheduled for December 31.
In a separate statement, the Governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, says the decision is intended to encourage reflection and prayers among residents.
Governor Sanwo-Olu urges Lagosians to pray for peace, prosperity and collective wellbeing, while assuring them of a brighter year ahead. “I want to assure you all that the year 2026 will be a better year for us in Lagos State,” the governor says.
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Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
Oluwafunbi Bello 
Mirian Gom 
Hussaini Ibrahim