Lagos State suffered significant losses from fire incidents in 2024, with properties valued at approximately N19.52 billion destroyed, the state government has revealed. This alarming figure was disclosed by the Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Relations, Olugbenga Oyerinde, during a ministerial press briefing held on Wednesday, marking the second anniversary of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term.
According to Oyerinde, despite the devastating losses, the government successfully rescued 450 victims alive and recovered 91 deceased individuals from fire incidents throughout the state last year. He further highlighted that properties worth an estimated N117.12 billion were saved from total destruction due to rapid emergency responses and improved fire safety measures.
The Lagos State Government has embarked on strategic initiatives to enhance its fire safety and emergency response capabilities. Oyerinde revealed that the Nigerian Forest Security Service has been integrated into the state’s overall security framework to help protect critical infrastructure and prevent fire outbreaks linked to forested or undeveloped areas.
In a bid to boost security around the state’s borders, 100 new security personnel were recruited to guard key entry points and protect commuters. Additionally, the government doubled the allowances of security officers, underscoring its commitment to frontline personnel welfare.
To further equip emergency responders, the ministry distributed 320 units of essential security equipment such as batons, torchlights, bulletproof vests, gloves, and raincoats. These tools are intended to improve the efficiency and safety of operatives during emergency interventions.
Recognising the critical need for rapid fire response, Lagos State commissioned two new fire stations in Ijegun-Egba and Ijede. Construction work is ongoing on additional fire stations located in Kosofe, Yaba, Ikotun, and other strategic areas across the metropolis. These facilities are expected to reduce response times and mitigate fire damage in vulnerable communities.
A key enhancement in fire suppression capacity has been the installation of industrial boreholes in major fire stations across Alausa, Isolo, Ebute-Elefun, Ajegunle, and Ogombo. This development addresses the critical issue of water supply quality and availability, which is essential for effective firefighting operations.
Between January 2024 and March 2025, the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) responded to a staggering 2,022 emergencies, covering a wide range of incidents beyond fire outbreaks. LASEMA’s Pre-Hospital Care Unit treated 707 medical cases and successfully rescued 4,847 accident victims within the same period.
These statistics highlight the broad scope of emergency challenges facing Lagos and the agency’s growing role in managing public safety crises.
The N19.52 billion loss in properties underscores the urgent need for stronger fire prevention policies and community awareness programs. With Lagos being Nigeria’s commercial hub and most populous city, the economic repercussions of these losses extend beyond immediate property damage — affecting businesses, livelihoods, and social welfare.
Government officials are advocating for increased public-private partnerships to fund advanced fire detection and suppression technologies. There is also a push to enforce stricter building codes and promote fire safety education across communities to prevent future tragedies.
Lagos State’s proactive measures — including increased manpower, infrastructure development, and strategic partnerships — have begun to mitigate the devastating effects of fire incidents. However, the significant property losses and human toll serve as a stark reminder of the persistent challenges in urban disaster management.
Continued investment in fire safety infrastructure, enhanced emergency response training, and public awareness campaigns remain critical to safeguarding lives and property in Lagos.