By Isiaka Mustapha, Editor-In-Chief, People’s Security Monitor

The inferno that engulfed sections of Alaba International Market in Lagos on Tuesday evening has become a defining moment in Nigeria’s fire safety history. It was a tragedy that tested the efficiency, courage, and leadership of the Federal Fire Service under its new Controller General, Dr. Olumode Samuel Adeyemi. What could have been a catastrophic disaster was swiftly contained, thanks to the quick response, coordination, and professionalism of his team.

According to official reports, the fire started at about 7:18 p.m. on Tuesday, October 22, 2025, at 155 Olojo Drive, opposite Tantalizers, in Ojo Local Government Area of Lagos State. Eyewitnesses confirmed that an electrical surge from a faulty generator, shortly after electricity was restored, ignited one of the two-storey buildings within the market. The building, measuring about 648 square metres, was located inside a section of the market that spans roughly five hectares.

The fire quickly spread through the furniture and power-equipment section, consuming shops filled with combustible items such as wood, foams, plastics, and electrical accessories. Within minutes, the blaze intensified, feeding on densely packed stalls and flammable materials. Initial estimates by traders and emergency responders placed the losses in the tens of millions of naira, though a full assessment was still ongoing.

The situation was worsened by the narrow and congested access routes leading into the market. Alaba International Market is notorious for its labyrinth of tight inner roads, roadside trading, and gridlocked vehicular movement. These factors made it extremely difficult for emergency vehicles to gain access. As panic spread, traders formed human chains, passing buckets of water in a desperate attempt to contain the flames before help arrived.

Despite the challenging terrain and the notorious Lagos traffic, the Federal Fire Service, Lagos Command, responded with remarkable speed. Upon receiving the distress call, the Lagos Command of the Federal Fire Service activated the emergency response network, dispatching units from Ojo, Festac, and Ikeja fire stations. Traffic officers from LASTMA provided on-ground clearance, allowing the heavy fire trucks to cut through gridlocked roads.

Eyewitnesses described how fire trucks maneuvered through the congested Ojo–Alaba corridor with sirens blaring, an operation that ordinarily would have taken over an hour but was achieved in record time due to prior coordination. CG Adeyemi’s standing instruction on inter-agency traffic coordination proved decisive. Within minutes, the first units arrived at the scene to the relief and admiration of traders.

By the time firefighters reached the market, the flames had spread across two adjoining buildings. Explosions from fuel containers and electrical equipment further complicated the situation. Yet, the operatives, guided by the standard operating procedures issued under Dr. Adeyemi’s reforms, swung into immediate action. High-capacity water tenders and aerial ladders were deployed, while defensive lines were established to prevent the fire from reaching nearby warehouses.

Observers commended the precision and composure of the firefighters as they worked in coordinated units, controlling water pressure, evacuating trapped persons, and ensuring public safety. The team ensured real-time coordination between the control room and on-site commanders.

The Federal Fire Service’s swift intervention proved decisive. By 10:10 p.m., barely three hours after ignition, the inferno was brought under control through the combined efforts of the FFS, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, LASEMA, and market security teams. The use of water jets, foam suppressants, and modern extinguishing chemicals limited the damage to two buildings and a few adjoining stalls.

Remarkably, there were no fatalities or serious injuries, according to official statements. This success was attributed to the quick evacuation of the area and the timely guidance provided by trained traders who had participated in earlier fire-safety drills organized by the Federal Fire Service.

The Lagos Command of the Federal Fire Service received wide commendation for its outstanding professionalism and courage during the operation. The State Fire Controller’s team demonstrated exceptional competence, tactical judgment, and bravery qualities that reflect the rigorous training and leadership culture instituted under Dr. Adeyemi’s administration.

Analysts and traders alike praised the Lagos Command for their ability to coordinate with other agencies seamlessly and manage one of the most complex fire incidents in recent years. Their discipline and determination under pressure were widely regarded as a model for emergency response nationwide.

In post-incident analysis, investigators confirmed that the fire affected 12 shops within the main building and partially damaged two adjacent structures. Preliminary assessments indicated that most goods lost were furniture, electronics, and generators. The quick containment prevented the flames from spreading into the densely populated electronics section of the market, a scenario that could have resulted in total devastation.

The Alaba inferno, though tragic, became a showcase of the renewed strength and efficiency of the Federal Fire Service. Analysts have described it as a textbook example of crisis management and a proof of how visionary leadership can turn potential tragedy into a success story.

Under Dr. Adeyemi, the FFS has moved from being reactive to proactive. His data-driven strategies, emphasis on teamwork, and commitment to accountability are redefining public fire safety management across Nigeria.

Traders and residents have since expressed gratitude, describing the firefighters as heroes and commending CG Adeyemi for transforming the Service into a responsive, modern, and people-oriented institution.

The Alaba Market fire will be remembered not only for the losses it caused but for the resilience, professionalism, and renewed public trust it inspired—a true testimony to the leadership of Dr. Olumode Samuel Adeyemi and the rebirth of Nigeria’s Federal Fire Service.