Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo‑Olu has announced that the Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI), building, a 22‑storey high‑rise on Martins Street, will be demolished after a massive fire ravaged the structure and disrupted surrounding properties on Lagos Island.
Inferno on Christmas Eve
The fire broke out late on Christmas Eve at the multi‑storey GNI building, which has been used largely as a warehouse and commercial space for clothing materials and retail outlets. Emergency responders were alerted at about 4:41 p.m., and multiple Lagos State fire crews were on the scene within minutes to battle the blaze that spread across several floors.
The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), confirmed that no fatalities were recorded, although seven people were hospitalised with burns and smoke inhalation injuries after being attended to by first‑aid teams and taken to nearby medical facilities.
Extensive Damage and Ongoing Response
While the main fire has largely been brought under control, thick smoke and heat were still visible at the scene more than 10 hours after it began, with various emergency agencies continuing dampening and containment operations. Nearby structures, including a mosque, the Oluwole Plaza, and the seven‑storey Radio Nigeria building, were also affected to varying degrees because of their proximity to the inferno.
In the aftermath, shops along Martins Street have been shut, adjoining roads cordoned off, and commercial activities paused as authorities maintain safety precautions around the disaster site.
Governor’s Directive: Demolition Ahead
During an on‑the‑spot inspection on December 25, 2025, Governor Sanwo‑Olu revealed that the structural integrity of the GNI building has been severely compromised and that plans are underway to demolish the high‑rise once the fire is completely extinguished. He said the demolition will be supervised by a technical committee led by the Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Gbenga Oyerinde, which will recommend the safest and most effective strategy for the pull‑down work in the next few days.
Sanwo‑Olu also urged greater safety consciousness among residents and traders, especially during the dry season when fire risks are heightened, and warned people to stay clear of unstable structures until the situation is completely stabilized. Emergency responders will remain on site to prevent rekindling and safeguard the surrounding area.
Support for Affected Traders
The governor’s administration has pledged support for traders and business owners affected by the blaze and the related closure of commercial activity in the vicinity. He commended firefighters and first responders for their swift action and called on Lagosians to cooperate with ongoing safety operations.
