Korede Abdullah 
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu
LAGOS, Nigeria – Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu urges residents to remain calm after firefighters rescue 10 people alive from a fire that engulfs the 25-storey Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) building on Martins Street, Lagos Island.
The blaze breaks out Wednesday afternoon, triggering an emergency response amid growing concerns over fire safety in densely populated commercial districts.
The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service confirmed receiving a distress call at 4:41 p.m., with crews from Ebute Elefun and Dolphin stations arriving by 4:53 p.m., supported by units from Sari Iganmu and Alausa headquarters.
Preliminary findings show the fire starts on the fifth floor, currently used as a warehouse and retail outlet for clothing materials. Firefighters launch coordinated containment operations and successfully rescue trapped occupants.
In a statement on Thursday, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, says the governor personally monitors the incident and orders immediate evacuation of adjoining buildings. “Human life remains our highest priority,” Sanwo-Olu says. “I have directed emergency teams to ensure no one is left behind.”
Emergency officials confirm that the rescued victims, mostly men, sustain varying injuries but remain in stable condition.
The fire spreads to five neighbouring buildings, partially damaging two and severely affecting three, including the old Lagos Central Mosque. Firefighters cite poor storage practices and highly combustible materials as factors that accelerate the spread. “Crowd control and accessibility significantly challenge suppression efforts,” the Fire Service explains, noting the conjoined nature of the buildings.
Sanwo-Olu commends first responders for their courage and reassures residents that the situation remains under control as safety assessments continue.
About the Author
Hussaini Ibrahim 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
Koko Maxwella 
Otamere Gladness