Lagos Government Provides Update On GNI Building Fire, Confirms Casualties

The Lagos State Government has clarified speculations following the Christmas Eve fire that engulfed the 25-storey Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) House on Martins Street in Balogun Market, Lagos Island.

In a statement signed by Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, the State government expressed condolences to those affected. “The Government wishes to, once again, sympathize with all those who have lost their loved ones in this unfortunate incident. May the Almighty give them the strength to go through this tough time. We feel their pains and understand their anxiety.”

The statement also highlighted the emergency response, noting that, “As soon as the fire alarm was received, the Government deployed teams of first responders, including the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Lagos State Ambulance Services (LASAMBUS), security agencies, and other emergency and safety units. These teams have remained on the site, conducting systematic search, rescue, and safety operations, in line with internationally accepted emergency response protocols.”

According to the statement, rescue operations were ongoing, with officials remaining on-site to continue recovery efforts and conduct forensic assessments.

The Lagos State Government also provided a breakdown of victims following the fire, saying that eight males, including a fireman, were rescued with varying degrees of injuries and taken to hospital, while three males and two females sustained minor injuries, received first aid, and were released at the scene. In addition, one adult female was extricated dead from the rubble, two adult males were extricated from the site, and three persons suffered burns.

The government appealed to the public to remain calm and refrain from spreading unverified reports. “The Government appeals to the public, affected families, and all stakeholders to exercise patience, restraint, and sensitivity, and to refrain from spreading speculations that could heighten public anxiety or undermine ongoing operations.”

Commissioner Omotoso also reassured Lagos residents that the government was fully committed to safety and the professional handling of the tragic incident.

“Further updates will be communicated through appropriate channels,” he added.