Lagos Tower Incident: Afriland Properties addresses fire safety, commits to enhanced protocols 

Afriland Properties Plc has outlined comprehensive safety measures following a fire incident at its Afriland Towers on Broad Street, Lagos Island, which tragically claimed 10 lives.

The fire started in the basement inverter room at approximately 1:20 pm and was contained at the origin, according to company officials. The building was equipped with regulatory-compliant safety features, including smoke extractors, fire reels, and dual emergency staircases.

“The building will remain closed until it undergoes thorough safety audits, post-fire cleaning, and any necessary reconstruction or system upgrades,” said Chukwunonso Okafor, Head of Brand, Marketing and Corporate Communications at Afriland Properties.

The company confirmed that all affected staff are receiving grief counseling and medical evaluations, while bereaved families are being supported with practical assistance programs.

“We are undertaking a comprehensive safety review of Afriland Towers and all our managed facilities, working with independent fire safety experts and regulatory agencies to ensure elevated safety protocols beyond regulatory requirements,” Okafor added.

The building held valid safety certifications from federal and state fire services, with regular drills conducted under official oversight. Re-occupation will occur only after full regulatory certification of complete safety compliance.

Afriland Properties’ other developments continue normal operations while undergoing proactive safety reviews.

The fire broke out at Afriland Towers on Broad Street, Lagos Island, at around 1:20 pm, originating in the basement inverter room.

Afriland Properties immediately implemented its safety protocols and evacuation plans. However, smoke and intense heat spread rapidly, severely limiting visibility and complicating evacuation efforts. Ten people, mostly from smoke inhalation, tragically lost their lives.

Afriland emphasizes that the fire was contained at its origin and notes the presence of safety systems such as alarms, extinguishers, staircases, and exits. First responders arrived within 20 minutes of the alarm, and the property is now undergoing comprehensive safety audits to ensure it meets all regulatory standards prior to reopening.