The Lagos State Government has scheduled the controlled demolition of the fire-damaged 25-storey Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) House on Lagos Island for Thursday, October 15, to prevent further danger to lives and property.
The Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, said the decision followed structural assessments that found the building unsafe.
He said the demolition would be carried out under controlled conditions and in line with global best practices to reduce risks to people and surrounding properties.
Oke-Osanyintolu said the area around the building would be cordoned off during the operation, with access restricted to keep members of the public away from the danger zone.
He added that temporary traffic diversions would be introduced on adjoining roads to allow demolition teams to work safely and protect motorists and other road users.
The agency warned that the exercise could cause noise and dust, urging residents, traders and business owners in the area to cooperate with emergency responders and traffic officials.
It also advised motorists to use alternative routes where possible and obey safety instructions and diversion signs.
The demolition follows a fire that engulfed the building on Martins Street, Lagos Island, on Dec. 24, 2025, causing extensive damage and a partial collapse.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu had ordered the building's demolition after inspections raised concerns about its structural condition.
The fire also affected nearby buildings and shops.
The National Emergency Management Agency has supported recovery operations at the site with heavy-duty equipment provided by the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation.
Authorities have warned that the weakened structure poses a danger to people and properties nearby, making its controlled removal necessary.
LASEMA said it would work with other state agencies to coordinate safety measures and ensure the exercise does not endanger the public.
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