No fewer than 62 people have died in fire incidents and building collapses across Lagos State in the first half of 2025, according to the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service (LSFRS).
The figure was contained in the agency’s Mid‑Year Activity Report covering January to June 2025, released on Monday by its Senior Public Affairs Officer, Maria Fadairo.
Key Statistics
Between January and June, the fire service said it handled 1,072 emergency incidents:
922 fire outbreaks
• 2 minor explosions
• 10 building collapses(8 partial)
• 73 rescue operations
• 65 salvage missions
During this period, the agency successfully rescued 252 people, while 62 fatalities were recorded.
The service also reported a worrying rise in prank calls, revealing it received 315 false emergency alerts.
Property Saved and Lost
According to the LSFRS, its prompt interventions helped save property valued at ₦64.32bn, though losses were still estimated at ₦10.72bn.
Director Speaks
Margaret Adeseye, Director of the LSFRS, said the figures show the agency’s importance in protecting lives and assets across Lagos.
“These figures demonstrate our effectiveness in minimising damage and safeguarding lives, the environment and assets,” she said.
“We are working with stakeholders to curb the rising incidents of fires and building collapses.”
She added that these efforts will be expanded during the 2025 International Fire Safety Conference 2.0, where stakeholders will discuss better strategies for fire safety and emergency response.
Why Buildings Keep Falling
Commenting on the problem, real estate manager Gbola Aremu blamed many collapses on greed and poor technical expertise in the construction industry.
“People go into construction without the right knowledge, skip soil tests, ignore drainage patterns, and cut corners to save costs,” Aremu said.
“These are critical factors that determine the strength and durability of a building.”
Authorities urge residents to stay alert, obey safety guidelines, and report structural defects early to prevent further tragedies.
