Lagos Fire Incidents Gulp N19bn Properties in One Year

The Lagos State Government has disclosed that properties worth N19.52bn were lost to fire incidents across the state in 2024.

The Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Relations, Olugbenga Oyerinde, disclosed this on Wednesday at the ongoing ministerial press briefing to mark the second year of the second term of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration.

He said, “Properties worth N19.52bn were lost to fire incidents across the state in 2024. 450 victims were rescued alive from fire incidents, while 91 victims were recovered dead. In addition, properties estimated to be worth N117.12bn were saved from being lost to fire incidents.”

Oyerinde emphasised the strategic milestones recorded in coordinating emergency response efforts and fostering partnerships across governmental tiers in the country.

He said the government has strengthened its security strategy through the integration of the Nigerian Forest Security Service into the state’s security architecture.

He added, “A total of 100 security personnel were recruited to fortify security management around border areas adjoining the state for the safety of the commuting public. The state government also doubled the allowances of security officers, demonstrating a firm commitment to personnel welfare.

“The ministry distributed 320 units of essential security tools, including batons, torch lights, bulletproof vests, gloves, and raincoats to frontline operatives, while two new fire stations were commissioned in Ijegun-Egba and Ijede to enable fire safety operations. Construction is also ongoing on other fire stations in Kosofe, Yaba, Ikotun, and other areas of the state.”

To improve water quality for fire suppression, Oyerinde disclosed that industrial boreholes were installed in key fire stations across Alausa, Isolo, Ebute-Elefun, Ajegunle, and Ogombo to build capacity in fire safety and rescue operations

The commissioner further explained that between January 2024 and March 2025, the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency responded to 2,022 emergencies.

He hinted that LASEMA’s Pre-Hospital Care Unit attended to 707 medical cases, while successfully rescuing and treating 4,847 accident victims.