Lagos State fire outbreaks in 2025 claimed 133 lives, destroyed ₦19.72 billion property, highlighting need for stronger prevention, preparedness, and response.
Fire outbreaks, emergency response, prevention, Lagos State,Lagos State has recorded a worrying rise in fire outbreaks in 2025, resulting in the loss of no fewer than 133 lives and property valued at ₦19.72 billion.
This represents a significant increase compared to 2024, when fire outbreaks claimed 91 lives and destroyed property worth ₦19.52 billion, signaling the persistent challenges that Lagos State faces in managing fire emergencies.
The figures were disclosed in the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service 2025 Activity Report, which was officially released during the 2026 Staff Engagement event themed “People, Preparedness and Service Delivery: Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service” at Alausa, Ikeja.
The report offers a comprehensive overview of the state’s emergency response efforts, fire prevention activities, and ongoing challenges in ensuring public safety.
According to the report, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service received a total of 2,617 emergency calls during 2025. Out of these, 645 were false alarms, reflecting one of the operational challenges the agency continues to grapple with.
Nevertheless, the service successfully attended to 1,685 confirmed fire outbreaks, rescuing 473 victims alive and salvaging property valued at ₦118.32 billion.
These figures underscore the critical role of emergency response in mitigating the impact of fire outbreaks in Lagos State.
In addition to responding to emergencies, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service intensified its fire prevention initiatives.
During 2025, the agency conducted 8,791 facility inspections across residential, commercial, and industrial locations to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Furthermore, 7,997 safety certificates were issued to compliant establishments, while 90 advisory reports were generated to guide property owners and managers in adopting best practices for fire safety.
The Controller-General of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Mrs. Margaret Adeseye, noted that despite the notable achievements in response and prevention, the service continues to face operational challenges.
These include the prevalence of false calls and difficulties in accessing adequate water supplies during fire emergencies.
She emphasized that addressing these challenges remains a top priority for strengthening emergency response in Lagos State.
Speaking at the staff engagement, Mrs. Adeseye highlighted the importance of the event’s theme in reflecting the pillars of effective fire management.
“Our people remain our greatest asset; preparedness is the backbone of operational effectiveness; and service delivery is the ultimate measure of our impact on the lives and property of Lagosians,” she said.
The forum also served as a platform to assess past performance, identify areas for improvement, and renew the agency’s commitment to excellence.
She further explained that the engagement was designed to enhance capacity building, foster professionalism, and promote a proactive approach to fire prevention, emergency response, and disaster risk reduction.
Through continuous training and strategic engagement, the service aims to reduce fire outbreaks and minimize their impact on both lives and property.
Mrs. Adeseye also praised the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for its unwavering support, particularly the recent signing of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service Bill into law.
She described this development as a historic milestone that strengthens the agency’s institutional framework and improves operational efficiency.
The report reiterated the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service’s mission to create a safer, more resilient, and fire-conscious Lagos State.
Prevention of fire outbreaks remains the top priority, response times are being improved, and service delivery continues to focus on the well-being of residents.
Mrs. Adeseye reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to proactive engagement with the public, ensuring that fire awareness and safety remain central to the state’s disaster management strategy.
The 2026 staff engagement programme featured presentations, interactive discussions, and experience-sharing sessions aimed at improving operational preparedness and fire risk management.
The event also included the decoration of newly promoted officers and the presentation of awards to deserving personnel, acknowledging their exceptional contributions to emergency response and fire prevention.
The report concludes with a strong call for continued vigilance, public education, and collaboration between government agencies, property owners, and the community.
It emphasizes that minimizing the devastating effects of fire outbreaks in Lagos State requires a combined effort in prevention, readiness, and prompt emergency response.
As Lagos continues to grow and urbanize rapidly, fire outbreaks remain a critical risk, highlighting the need for sustained investment in firefighting infrastructure, training, and public awareness campaigns.
The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service remains dedicated to its mandate, ensuring that residents are better protected and that lives and property are safeguarded against future emergencies.
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