Apapa Customs Command Building Catches Fire in Lagos

A blaze erupted on Monday at the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Western Marine Command premises situated in Apapa, Lagos, causing extensive damage to assets estimated to be worth millions of naira. Reports indicate that the inferno commenced around 10:23 am, triggered by an electrical surge originating from the conference room, before rapidly extending its reach to various other parts of the structure.

According to a report by the News Agency of Nigeria, personnel present at the command made strenuous attempts to bring the conflagration under control prior to the arrival of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service officials, who got to the scene around 10:45 am.

Deputy Comptroller of Customs, Timothy Jonah, who had recently assumed leadership at the command, taking over from his predecessor, expressed deep regret regarding the unfortunate occurrence. He stated, “I just resumed duty to take over, only to witness this fire outbreak. Every challenge, though negative, is an opportunity to strengthen our operations. In the meantime, we will set up a committee to investigate the cause of the fire.”

Mr. Jonah lauded the prompt actions of the staff on duty and their effective collaboration with the fire service, adding that steps would be implemented to enhance existing safety protocols and avert similar incidents in the future.