The Lagos State Government has disclosed that fire incidents across the state in 2024 have resulted in property losses amounting to N19.52 billion, underscoring the serious impact of such emergencies on infrastructure and human lives.
This was revealed by the Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Mr. Olugbenga Oyerinde, during a ministerial press briefing held on Wednesday to mark the second anniversary of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term in office.
Oyerinde noted that during the reporting period, 91 lives were lost to various fire incidents, while 450 people were rescued, thanks to the prompt actions of emergency responders. He also stated that property worth N117.12 billion was salvaged due to timely intervention.
He highlighted the state’s progress in improving emergency preparedness and response through collaboration with federal agencies and continuous investment in infrastructure and training.
To bolster public safety, Oyerinde announced the recruitment and deployment of 100 new security personnel to border communities, aimed at improving surveillance and protecting commuters. He also mentioned that the allowances of security operatives have been doubled to boost morale and efficiency.
In addition, the ministry has distributed 320 security kits, including batons, torches, bulletproof vests, gloves, and raincoats. Two new fire stations have also been commissioned in Ijegun-Egba and Ijede to strengthen the state’s fire response capacity.
Construction of more fire stations is underway in Kosofe, Yaba, Ikotun, and other areas to reduce response times across the city.
To improve water access for firefighting, industrial boreholes have been installed at key fire stations in Alausa, Isolo, Ebute-Elefun, Ajegunle, and Ogombo. This is part of a broader strategy to boost Lagos’ fire suppression capacity.
Oyerinde further revealed that between January 2024 and March 2025, the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) responded to 2,022 emergencies. Its Pre-Hospital Care Unit attended to 707 medical cases and successfully rescued and treated 4,847 accident victims during the same period.