Lagos Stakeholders Urge Enhanced Fire Safety Measures

Stakeholders in Lagos have demanded stronger prevention measures and stricter enforcement against fire incidents, following a record of 1,685 fire incidents in 2025 that resulted in 133 deaths and significant property damage. This call was made during the premiere of “Burning Point: Inside Lagos’ Fires,” an investigative documentary produced by CBI News.

The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Obafemi Hamzat, represented by Margaret Adeseye, Director-General of Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, stated that while the state has expanded firefighting capacity, including increasing fire stations from 14 to 29 and procuring 62 new vehicles, stronger preventive measures and compliance with safety requirements are essential. Hamzat emphasized that building owners and businesses must maintain safe electrical installations and accessible escape routes.

Additionally, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the African Democratic Congress governorship candidate, raised concerns about substandard solar energy products and called for better regulation. Chinedu Ukatu, President of the Ndigboamaka Progressive Market Association, highlighted the necessity of compulsory insurance and improved market infrastructure to protect traders.