14 Rescued as Fire Guts Afriland Tower on Lagos Island

At least nine people were rescued and five others resuscitated after a fire outbreak at Afriland Tower, a multi-storey building housing several businesses on Broad Street, Lagos Island.

The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service confirmed the incident in a statement posted on its official X handle on Tuesday evening.

It noted that some occupants managed to escape unhurt, while emergency efforts were still ongoing at the time of the update.

“A total of nine victims have been rescued. Five individuals have been successfully resuscitated. Several others escaped unhurt while efforts are currently ongoing to resuscitate remaining four individuals,” the agency stated.

According to the Fire Service, the blaze started in the basement inverter room of the tower, sending thick smoke billowing through multiple floors. The agency said a distress call was received at about 1:38 p.m., triggering immediate evacuation measures.

Videos circulating on social media showed smoke engulfing the building as panicked occupants and passersby assisted in evacuating trapped individuals before emergency responders arrived.

The Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that its operatives were able to contain the fire while mounting search, rescue, and medical operations at the site.

Authorities have yet to provide details on the full extent of damage or the number of businesses affected by the incident.