Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has ordered the demolition of the 25-storey Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) House on Martins Street, Lagos Island, following a devastating fire that engulfed the building on December 24, 2025.
The governor gave the directive after inspecting the fire-ravaged structure, which reportedly suffered severe structural damage and partial collapse. Although no deaths were recorded, several people sustained injuries, while nearby shops and buildings were affected.
Sanwo-Olu said the demolition decision was taken in the interest of public safety, stressing that the building now poses a serious risk to lives and surrounding properties. A technical committee has been set up to determine the safest method for pulling down the structure.
The incident has once again raised concerns about fire safety, building compliance, and the storage of combustible materials in high-rise commercial buildings across Nigeria.
