The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency has ordered an immediate evacuation following the spread of the fire incident at the 22-storey Great Nigeria Insurance House located on Martins Street, Lagos Island.
The statement was issued and signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, on Wednesday night.
According to preliminary assessments conducted by the LASEMA team at the scene, the fire escalated rapidly across several floors of the high-rise building, creating significant risks to human lives, nearby structures, and members of the public within and around the affected area.
The agency warned that the intensity of the fire poses dangers including smoke inhalation, possible structural failure, and the spread of flames to adjoining buildings within the surrounding perimeter.
As a result of the escalating situation, LASEMA strongly advised residents, traders, occupants of neighbouring buildings, and members of the public within both the immediate and extended vicinity of the affected plaza to evacuate the area without delay to avert potential casualties.
Emergency response teams were immediately deployed to the scene, including LASEMA’s Shark Response Team, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the Lagos Ambulance Service, and other critical responders, all of whom are actively engaged in firefighting, rescue, and containment operations.
The agency urged members of the public to remain calm and orderly during the evacuation process to ensure safety and allow emergency personnel to carry out their duties effectively.
LASEMA also cautioned residents and passers-by against returning to the affected area until it is officially declared safe by the appropriate authorities.
Members of the public were further advised to avoid obstructing emergency operations and to strictly follow all instructions issued by emergency responders and security personnel on the ground.
The agency assured the public that it would continue to provide timely updates as rescue efforts and fire suppression operations progress.
Reaffirming its mandate, LASEMA reiterated its commitment to the protection of lives and property and appealed for full public cooperation as emergency operations continue.
