Femi Ashekun/
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has confirmed that eight people died and 13 others were rescued following the Christmas Eve fire that destroyed the Great Nigeria Insurance building.
He also ordered the demolition of the burnt structure and several surrounding buildings after safety assessments declared the area unsafe.
Sanwo-Olu, who visited the scene of the incident on Friday, said five of the deceased victims had been identified, while three remained unidentified, highlighting the scale of human loss recorded in the tragedy.
“My deepest sympathies remain with the families who lost loved ones and with everyone whose homes and businesses were affected,” the governor said. “I know that no words can fully ease the pain they are going through.”
Giving an update on rescue operations, Sanwo-Olu disclosed that emergency responders were still combing the rubble.
“As of today, we have confirmed eight deaths. Five victims have been identified, while three remain unidentified. Thirteen people have been rescued so far,” he said.
He added that search efforts were being carried out with extreme caution.
“Emergency teams continue to work carefully through the rubble, particularly at the rear of the building, to ensure no one remains trapped,” the governor stated.
To support victims’ families and members of the public seeking information, Sanwo-Olu said an information centre had been established at the site.
“Anyone requiring assistance or information can speak with officers from LASEMA, NEMA, LASBCA, and the other responding agencies,” he said.
The governor stressed that the disaster scene remained dangerous and had been placed under strict restrictions.
“The entire area remains unsafe. No business or unauthorised activity should be taking place there. The market is closed, and only first responders are permitted on the site,” he warned.
On the next steps, Sanwo-Olu announced that the GNI building would be pulled down following a structural integrity review, alongside other nearby structures found to pose risks.
“Following a full structural review, the GNI building will be demolished using the safest possible methods,” he said. “Some surrounding buildings must also be removed. While these are difficult decisions, we must prioritise the safety of lives above all else.”
He linked the severity of the incident to unsafe practices around the commercial hub, particularly the use of generators and the siting of shops close to power infrastructure.
“This tragedy serves as a painful reminder of the dangers posed by certain practices around the market,” Sanwo-Olu said. “The unsafe use of generators and the construction of shops around transformers significantly increased the risks in this area.”
The fire broke out on December 24 at the multi-storey Great Nigeria Insurance building located within a densely populated market area in Lagos, prompting a large-scale emergency response from state and federal agencies.
Fire officials have said the blaze spread rapidly due to the congestion of shops and the presence of combustible materials.
Sanwo-Olu said the state government would continue to oversee recovery and relief efforts.
“My heart is with every family affected,” he said. “I remain committed to overseeing the recovery process and ensuring we do right by our people.”
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