Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu visited the fire-ravaged Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) House on January 2, 2026, confirming eight deaths from the inferno that erupted on December 24, 2025. The 25-storey commercial building on Martins Street in Balogun Market, Lagos Island, partially collapsed after flames started on the fourth floor around 4:41 p.m., spreading rapidly and affecting nearby structures.
Incident Overview
The blaze prompted swift response from fire crews arriving within 12 minutes, supported by agencies like LASEMA and NEMA, though initial reports noted no casualties before the toll climbed. By late December, deaths reached six, with reports of families burying unidentifiable remains and traders evacuating amid government orders. Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed sympathies, noting five victims identified and three unidentified, with 13 rescued.
Current Safety Measures
The entire area remains off-limits to businesses and unauthorized persons, with only first responders allowed as teams sift through rubble, especially at the rear. An information center operates on-site for assistance from LASEMA, NEMA, LASBCA, and others, while the market stays closed. Surrounding buildings face evacuation and potential removal following structural assessments.
A full review will lead to safe demolition of the GNI building and select adjacent structures to prioritize lives. The governor highlighted risks from unsafe generator use and shops near transformers in the market, urging better practices. Recovery efforts continue under his oversight to support affected families and businesses.
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