120 Shops Destroyed, One Injured in Lagos Market Fire – NEMA

120 Shops Destroyed, One Injured in Lagos Market Fire -NEMA

A devastating fire outbreak at Mandilas Market, Lagos Island, has destroyed at least 120 shops and left one person injured, according to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

The incident occurred on Tuesday night when flames engulfed Emab Plaza, a four-storey building situated behind the popular Mandilas complex. Eyewitnesses reported that the fire started around 9 p.m. on the fourth floor before spreading rapidly to adjoining structures.

Lagos fire outbreak

In an update released on Thursday via its official X handle, NEMA confirmed that investigations traced the cause of the inferno to a faulty changeover switch in one of the affected buildings. The presence of highly flammable goods, including clothing, footwear, and plastics, further fueled the blaze, causing it to spread uncontrollably.

Emergency responders, including the Federal and Lagos State Fire Services, the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), and other stakeholders, battled through the night to contain the flames. Their swift intervention eventually prevented the fire from extending further into surrounding markets.

NEMA’s statement read: “Four buildings housing approximately 200 shops were completely destroyed in the incident. One individual sustained injuries from smoke inhalation and is currently receiving treatment at a nearby medical facility.”

The agency also commended the role of the Nigeria Police Force, which secured the area, cordoned off the affected site, and prevented looting or vandalism during the chaos.

In the aftermath, NEMA announced that its Lagos Operations Office is already working with stakeholders to provide support for affected traders. It also emphasized the need for increased safety awareness in highly congested commercial districts to prevent similar tragedies.

The Lagos market fire adds to a growing list of recent incidents across the state, sparking renewed calls for fire audits in public and private buildings, as well as stricter enforcement of safety regulations in high-risk commercial hubs.

For now, shop owners count their losses as authorities move to assess the full economic impact of the destruction.