A major fire broke out at the Great Nigeria Insurance House on Lagos Island, Nigeria, on Wednesday, engulfing parts of the 22-storey commercial building and prompting a large emergency response.
The structure, located on Martins Street, is primarily used as a warehouse for clothing materials, with several offices and retail shops operating within the premises.
Fire Breaks Out on Fourth Floor
Officials said the fire started around 5 p.m. on Wednesday. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), said the blaze originated on the fourth floor before spreading rapidly.
“Upon arrival at the scene, our team found the building engulfed by fire,” he said, adding that the flames quickly extended to higher levels.
Happening now
In Balogun market while my Igbo brothers has travel to celebrate Christmas with their families but knowing tht their business is on fire Omo 🥹🥹😭😭 pic.twitter.com/EMLZdGSe7O— NwaNkanuOgbuzuru 1 (@EdehDanielO) December 24, 2025
Emergency Crews Rush to Contain Blaze
Emergency responders, including LASEMA’s Shark Response Team and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, were immediately deployed to the scene to contain the fire and prevent further spread.
Firefighters focused on rescue operations and controlling the blaze as smoke billowed from multiple floors of the building.
No Casualties Reported So Far
Margaret Adeseye, Controller-General of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, confirmed that the fire affected up to the fifth floor of the building.
“The building is mainly used for warehouse storage and sale of clothing materials,” she said. “Some offices and shops are also within the premises. So far, no casualties have been recorded while firefighting continues.”
Investigation Underway
Authorities said investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the fire. Roads surrounding the commercial plaza may be temporarily closed to allow emergency teams to work safely.
Officials urged residents and business owners in the area to avoid the scene until firefighting and safety assessments are completed.
