The Lagos State Government has released a sobering report detailing the devastating impact of fire outbreaks across the state in the year 2025. The official figures show a significant human and material toll, underscoring the persistent challenges faced by the megacity.
A Year of Tragic Losses and Operational Challenges
According to the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service Year 2025 Activity Report, the state lost 133 lives to various fire disasters. The financial cost was equally staggering, with property valued at N19.72 billion completely destroyed by flames. This represents a concerning increase from the previous year, 2024, which recorded 91 fatalities and N19.52 billion in property loss.
The report, presented at the Y2026 Staff Engagement in Alausa, Ikeja, provides a detailed breakdown of the service's activities. In the period under review, the fire service received a total of 2,617 emergency calls. Out of these, 1,685 were confirmed fire incidents, while a significant 645 calls turned out to be false alarms.
Successes Amidst the Devastation
Despite the heavy losses, the efforts of the fire service personnel were not in vain. The report highlights that 473 victims were successfully rescued alive from infernos. Furthermore, through prompt and brave intervention, properties worth an estimated N118.32 billion were saved from destruction.
On the prevention front, the service was highly active. Officials carried out inspections of 8,791 facilities to ensure fire safety compliance. This proactive approach led to the issuance of 7,997 fire safety certificates and 90 official reports.
Leadership Calls for Preparedness and Support
The Controller General of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Margaret Adeseye, addressed the gathering themed “People, Preparedness and Service Delivery.” She acknowledged the operational hurdles faced by her team, including the persistent problem of false alarms and inadequate water supply at emergency sites.
Adeseye emphasized that the three pillars of the theme are critical for effective emergency response. “Our people remain our greatest asset; preparedness is the backbone of our operational effectiveness; and service delivery is the ultimate measure of our impact,” she stated. The engagement programme was designed to strengthen capacity and promote a proactive stance towards fire prevention and disaster risk reduction in a rapidly expanding city.
The Fire Boss expressed gratitude for the support from the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. She highlighted a key achievement: the recent signing of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service Bill into law. This law is seen as a historic move that strengthens the service's framework, enhances governance, and aims for greater efficiency.
Reaffirming her service's commitment, Adeseye pledged to build a more resilient and fire-conscious Lagos. The event also featured presentations, discussions, and the decoration of newly promoted officers, alongside awards for deserving staff members.
