The Lagos State Government will commence the controlled demolition of the structurally distressed Great Nigeria Insurance House on Lagos Island on Thursday, October 15, 2026, to prevent potential danger to lives and property.
The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) announced the planned exercise in a public safety advisory, stating that the decision followed a thorough structural assessment by relevant agencies, which confirmed that the building posed a significant risk to public safety.
According to the agency, the demolition will be carried out professionally and in line with global best practices to minimise risks during the operation.
LASEMA said the immediate surroundings of the building would be cordoned off, with access restricted throughout the exercise. Temporary traffic diversions would also be introduced on adjoining streets to ensure the safety of motorists and other road users.
The agency warned that the exercise could generate some noise and dust, appealing to residents, traders and business owners in the neighbourhood to exercise patience and cooperate with emergency responders.
It urged motorists and other road users to avoid the affected area as much as possible, use alternative routes where necessary and comply with safety instructions and traffic diversion signs.
LASEMA added that it would work with other relevant state agencies to coordinate safety arrangements and ensure the demolition was completed without harm to members of the public.
The agency, through its Permanent Secretary, Dr Olufemi Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu, appealed for the cooperation and understanding of Lagos residents, stressing the importance of the exercise in safeguarding lives and property.”