Lagos Records 91 Fire Deaths, Saves N117bn Property in 2024

By Babatunji Wusu

• 1,605 fire incidents across 57 councils caused N19.52bn losses.
• Eti-Osa, Alimosho top list; Badagry, Ikorodu record least outbreaks.
• Government highlights technology and community engagement in prevention.

The Lagos State Government says 91 people lost their lives, N19.52 billion worth of property was destroyed, and N117.12 billion worth was saved in 1,605 fire incidents recorded across the state’s 57 councils in 2024.

At the opening of the Lagos International Fire Safety Conference 2.0, organised by the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, officials revealed that Eti-Osa and Alimosho topped the list of councils with the most fire outbreaks, while Badagry and Ikorodu recorded the fewest cases.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu emphasised the need for collective action to protect lives and property, noting that early 2024 saw a worrying spike in incidents until a decline followed the first Fire Safety Conference in June. “When we unite knowledge, technology, and community willpower, we save lives,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu said technology now enables the state to use real-time data, special equipment, and targeted responses to improve firefighting efficiency. “Every second counts in fighting fires,” he stressed.

Fire and Rescue Service Director Margaret Adeseye reported 1,952 total emergency calls, including 578 false alarms, in 2024. She said 7,870 facilities were inspected, 7,039 fire safety certificates issued, and 831 establishments flagged for non-compliance.

The conference, themed “Leveraging Technology and Community Engagement to Prevent Fire”, brought together stakeholders to discuss strategies for reducing fire disasters in Lagos.