Lagos loses 133 lives, over N19bn property to fire outbreaks in 2025 – Report

.As fire service reaffirms commitment to safer, more resilient city

By Olasunkanmi Akoni

The Lagos State Government has revealed that at least 133 human lives and N19.72 billion worth of property were lost to various fire incidents in 2025.

Retrospectively, Lagos had recorded that 91 lives and N19.52 billion worth of property were lost to fire incidents in 2024.

Meanwhile, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, had recently, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to combating fire disasters through a strategic combination of modern technology and grassroots engagement.

Instructively, despite huge investment and holistic intervention measures by the State government, through the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the statistics shows an increase in cases.

The latest figures were contained in the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service Year 2025 Activity Report, released at the Y2026 Staff Engagement, themed: “People, Preparedness and Service Delivery: Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service,” held on Tuesday, at Alausa, Ikeja.

According to the report, the period under review, also recorded a total of 2,617 calls, with 645 false in 1,685 fire incidents.

Fortunately, 473 victims rescued alive and N118.32 billion worth of property saved.

Also, fire prevention activities recorded 8,791facilities inspected, 7,997certificates issued and 90 reports issued in the process.

In her address, Controller General, of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Margaret Adeseye, stressed that despite the achievements, the service faces operational challenges including false calls, inadequate water supply during emergency response.

The theme, Adeseye, stressed, aptly underscores the core pillars upon which effective emergency response and public safety rest.

According to her, This gathering is both timely and significant, as it affords us the opportunity to reflect on our collective journey, assess our operational achievements, and reinforce our commitment to excellence in service delivery.

“Our people remain our greatest asset; preparedness is the backbone of our operational effectiveness; and service delivery is the ultimate measure of our impact on the lives and property of Lagosians.

“This programme is designed to strengthen capacity, enhance professionalism, and promote a proactive approach to fire prevention, emergency response, and disaster risk reduction.

“Through, continuous training, shared experiences, and strategic engagement, we are equipping ourselves with the knowledge, skills, and right attitudes required to meet the evolving fire safety challenges of a rapidly growing megacity like Lagos.”

The fire boss, acknowledged the unwavering support of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu-led administration for its steadfast commitment to public order and safety.

She noted that the recent signing of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service Bill into law marks a historic milestone, strengthening institutional framework, enhancing governance, and positioning the Service for greater operational efficiency and responsiveness.

Adeseye, reaffirmed the service resolve “to build a safer, more resilient, and fire-conscious Lagos State where prevention is prioritized, response is swift, and service delivery remains people-centred and impactful.”

The engagement, witnessed various presentations, insightful presentations, interactive discussions, and experience-sharing sessions aimed at deepening understanding of fire risk management, operational preparedness, and improved service delivery..

It also witnessed decoration of newly promoted officers as well as awards to deserving staff.

The post Lagos loses 133 lives, over N19bn property to fire outbreaks in 2025 – Report appeared first on Vanguard News.