The Lagos State Government is set to begin the controlled demolition of the fire-damaged Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) House on Lagos Island on Thursday, nearly 10 months after a devastating fire engulfed the 25-storey commercial building.
The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) announced the planned demolition in a public safety advisory issued on Wednesday, October 14, 2026.
According to the agency, the decision followed a structural assessment by relevant authorities, which confirmed that the building posed a significant threat to public safety.
LASEMA Permanent Secretary, Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, stated that the exercise would be carried out under controlled conditions and in line with global safety standards to protect lives and property.
The agency disclosed that the area surrounding the building would be cordoned off, with access restricted throughout the demolition. Temporary traffic diversions, dust and noise are also expected during the operation.
Residents, traders, business owners and motorists were advised to avoid the affected area where possible, use alternative routes and comply with instructions from emergency responders and traffic officials.
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The demolition follows a devastating fire that broke out on December 24, 2025, at the 25-storey commercial building on Martins Street, Lagos Island. The building housed traders dealing in clothing materials, shoes, bags and other goods.
The inferno spread rapidly through the structure and nearby buildings, causing extensive damage to goods and properties. Part of the building collapsed during the incident, trapping occupants beneath the rubble.
At least three bodies were subsequently recovered from the scene, while several people sustained injuries.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, had ordered the demolition after visiting the scene on December 25, 2025, expressing concern over the severity of the damage and noting that the building had experienced previous fire incidents.
The state government also directed occupants and businesses around the damaged structure to vacate the area over concerns that the fire had compromised the safety of nearby buildings.
The planned demolition is expected to eliminate the danger posed by the structurally damaged building and improve safety for traders, residents and other users of the busy commercial district.
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