Firefighters battle blaze at Lagos high-rise as residents count losses
A major fire broke out at the 22-storey Great Nigeria Insurance House on Martins Street, Lagos Island, leaving emergency responders working for hours to contain the flames. The blaze, which began on Christmas Eve, spread to at least four nearby buildings, impacting both businesses and places of worship. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Lagos State Governor, urged calm and assured residents that the situation was under control. No casualties have been reported, but the cause of the fire remains unknown.
What happened
- The fire started around 5 p.m. on Wednesday at the Great Nigeria Insurance House, primarily used as a clothing warehouse.
- At least four adjacent buildings, including a church and a mosque, were affected by the blaze.
- Emergency crews received the distress call at about 4:41 p.m. and arrived at the scene within 12 minutes.
- Babajide Sanwo-Olu monitored the situation closely and directed intensified response efforts.
- The Lagos State Government confirmed no casualties and ongoing safety assessments in the affected area.
