A major fire broke out on Tuesday at Afriland Towers, a high-rise building housing a branch of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) and several companies in the busy Marina district of Lagos Island.
Videos shared on social media showed thick smoke pouring from the building as terrified occupants tried to escape. Some individuals were seen attempting to jump from upper floors, while others were rescued with the aid of ladders by residents and passers-by.
Crowds gathered at the front of the building as panic gripped the bustling commercial hub.
In a statement, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service confirmed the incident, saying its crews were battling the blaze at the six-storey tower on Broad Street.
“The call was received at 13:38 hours, and fire crews from Ebute Elefun and Sari Iganmu Fire Stations responded,” said Deputy Controller General Ogabi Olajide.
Officials explained that the fire started in the inverter room in the basement before spreading smoke across multiple floors. Evacuations were ongoing, and firefighters managed to contain the flames, calming the panic.
As of press time, no casualties had been officially confirmed.
