From Premium Times Nigeria · Emmanuel Agbo · · 1m 50s
Lagos Govt Demolishes Fire-Damaged GNI Building
Lagos State Government plans to demolish fire-damaged Great Nigeria Insurance building after 12 deaths.
In brief
Lagos State Government plans to demolish fire-damaged Great Nigeria Insurance building after 12 deaths. Lagos State Government ordered demolition of fire-damaged Great Nigeria Insurance building following 12 deaths in December 2025 fire. Originally reported by Premium Times Nigeria.
Lagos Govt Announces Demolition Plan
Lagos State Government has announced plans to demolish the fire-damaged Great Nigeria Insurance building on Lagos Island.
Fire Killed 12 People
The fire gutted the building on Martins Street on December 24 2025, killing 12 people according to an earlier report.
Emergency Management Agency Statement
Permanent Secretary Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu of Lagos State Emergency Management Agency announced restricted access during demolition.
Traffic Diversions Advised
Motorists urged to use alternative routes as temporary traffic diversions may be introduced during demolition.
Federal Agency Deployment
National Emergency Management Agency deployed China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation equipment for recovery operations.
Recovery Progress Reported
Significant progress recorded with controlled removal of debris and recovery of four bodies.
Governor Orders Demolition
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu ordered demolition following safety concerns about the fire-damaged structure.
Five Victims Identified
Governor confirmed five victims identified while three remained unaccounted for as of the announcement.
Market Closure Ordered
Nearby markets closed to restrict access to emergency responders only.
Fire Origin and Spread
Fire started on fourth floor and spread to adjoining structures causing partial collapse at seven floors.
Rescue Operations
Eight males including a firefighter rescued with injuries while three males and two females treated and discharged.
Governor's Safety Warning
Governor warned about risks from unsafe practices including improper generator use and shops near transformers.
Demolition Safety Measures
LASEMA to coordinate safety measures with other agencies during demolition operation.
The short version
Lagos State Government ordered demolition of fire-damaged Great Nigeria Insurance building following 12 deaths in December 2025 fire.
