Business
Towers Fire: Afriland Provides Counselling & Support For Staff
prioritising the well-being of its employees as they mourn
In the aftermath of the tragic fire incident at Afriland Towers on Broad Street, Lagos, Afriland Properties Plc has said it is prioritising the well-being of its employees as they mourn the loss of colleagues and process the trauma of the event.
The company disclosed that beyond precautionary medical checks, it has rolled out structured grief counselling, flexible work arrangements, and dedicated support channels to help staff navigate the difficult period.
“This is a time of mourning and healing, and staff welfare remains our highest priority,” Afriland said in its statement on the incident.
Afriland Towers, one of the prominent office complexes on Lagos Island, was engulfed by fire last week after an inverter room in the basement ignited, leading to heavy smoke that spread rapidly across the building. The disaster claimed 10 lives, including employees of United Capital Plc and the Federal Inland Revenue Service, while many others sustained varying degrees of injuries from smoke inhalation and escape efforts.
The company explained that it is working closely with affected organisations and bereaved families to provide compassionate support and practical assistance, even as regulatory authorities conduct full investigations into the incident. “We are committed to ensuring that the bereaved are supported with dignity, and we are extending counselling and structured assistance to our own employees directly affected,” the management said.
Afriland further noted that the Towers will remain closed until thorough safety and structural reviews are completed and the building is certified safe for occupation. In the meantime, alternative work arrangements have been provided, with management insisting that no member of staff will be compelled to return until confidence in safety is fully restored.
According to the company, the experience has underscored valuable lessons in emergency management and will drive a comprehensive review of fire safety measures across all properties under its management.
“This incident has left us deeply pained, but it has also strengthened our resolve to improve our disaster preparedness and support our people in every way possible,” the statement added.
