Maryam Aminu
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Thursday visited the scene of the devastating fire that engulfed the Great Nigeria Insurance House at Marina, Lagos Island, assuring residents of sustained collaboration between the state and federal authorities to ensure a safe, coordinated and successful rescue and recovery operation.
The Governor’s visit came as the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), in collaboration with other emergency response bodies, continued intensive operations at the fire site, where safety concerns remain high due to the weakened structural condition of the high-rise building.
Conducted around the incident area by operational commanders, Governor Sanwo-Olu commended NEMA and all responding agencies for what he described as their professionalism, swift coordination and dedication since the outbreak of the incident.
He stressed that the integrity of the affected structure demands extreme caution to prevent further loss of life, particularly among emergency responders.
According to the Governor, plans are at an advanced stage to deploy specialised technical resources for the controlled demolition of the distressed building, after which accumulated debris will be safely cleared.
He noted that this approach is critical to eliminating residual risks and ensuring the long-term safety of the environment and surrounding properties.
Governor Sanwo-Olu also praised the establishment of a Help Desk near the disaster scene, describing it as a vital platform for providing verified information, public guidance and support to affected individuals and families. The desk is jointly managed by NEMA, the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), the Local Emergency Management Committee and other stakeholders.
The ongoing response is being reinforced by a high-level technical team from NEMA Headquarters, deployed earlier by the Director-General of the Agency, Mrs. Zubaida Umar.
The team, led by the Director of Search and Rescue, Air Commodore Usman Bature, is working closely with the NEMA Lagos Operations Office and other partners to enhance coordination, improve real-time situational assessment and prioritise the safety of both responders and the public.
NEMA reaffirmed its commitment to standing with the Government and people of Lagos State throughout the response and recovery phases of the incident, pledging continued technical and operational support until the situation is fully resolved.
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