Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, southwestern Nigeria, has assured residents that the fire at the Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) Building on Martins Street in Lagos Island is under control. No casualties have been recorded.
Okay News reports that the Governor issued the update through Commissioner for Information and Strategy Gbenga Omotoso. Emergency responders continue containment and safety operations.
The distress call arrived at 4:41 p.m. on December 24, 2025. Crews from Ebute Elefun and Dolphin fire stations responded within 12 minutes.
Reinforcements came from Sari Iganmu and Alausa Headquarters. Firefighters prevented spread to adjacent structures.
Preliminary investigations trace the blaze to the fifth floor. It escalated to other levels.
“Governor Sanwo-Olu, who has been personally monitoring the incident since it was reported, directed the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service to intensify response efforts and ensure the evacuation of surrounding buildings to safeguard public safety,” the statement read.
“He also maintained constant communication with emergency responders and security agencies well into the early hours of the morning,” it added.
Sanwo-Olu prioritised human lives over property. He ordered thorough checks to confirm no one remained inside.
The 22-storey building, formerly corporate offices, now functions mainly as a warehouse and retail outlet for clothing materials.
Security agencies cordoned the area. First responders conduct ongoing safety assessments.
The Governor commended firefighters for swift intervention. He urged calm among Lagosians.
“Our priority is the safety of lives. I have directed that the building and its surroundings be thoroughly secured and that emergency personnel must ensure that no one is left inside,” Sanwo-Olu stated.
“Lagosians should remain calm; the situation is under control,” he added.
This incident highlights rapid response capabilities in Nigeria’s most populous city. It underscores coordination among state emergency services.
Ongoing monitoring ensures public safety in the commercial district. Investigations will determine the exact cause.
