A major fire outbreak occurred at the Greater Nigerian House located on Lagos Island at about 5:00 PM on Wednesday, December 24, sending thick clouds of smoke into the sky as emergency responders battled to contain the blaze. The incident caused panic across the busy commercial district as crowds gathered around the scene — many watching in shock and horror — while others made frantic attempts to rescue wares and salvage property from inside the building, efforts that ultimately proved unsuccessful as the fire intensified.
Eyewitnesses said the fire began on one of the upper floors of the high-rise structure before spreading rapidly to adjoining sections of the building. Firefighters from the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, supported by emergency units and security operatives, arrived at the scene to prevent the flames from extending to nearby buildings within the densely populated commercial hub.
Although the cause of the fire has not yet been officially confirmed, preliminary suggestions from those present indicate that the outbreak may have been linked to an electrical fault. Several offices and business spaces within the building were severely affected, with tenants and traders losing valuable equipment, documents, and stored goods.
Authorities cordoned off the immediate area while firefighters and emergency responders continued operations, as a large crowd remained gathered around the scene. As of the time of filing this report, no casualties have been officially confirmed.
The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) is expected to issue a formal update after a full evaluation of the incident and the extent of damage to the affected property.
Further details will be provided as investigations progress.
