LASEMA Begins Controlled Demolition Of Great Nigeria Insurance House

The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) has announced plans to commence the controlled demolition of the structurally distressed Great Nigeria Insurance House on Lagos Island.

The exercise, initially scheduled to begin on Thursday, October 15, 2026, is aimed at preventing potential danger to residents, traders, motorists and other members of the public.

In a statement, the Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, Dr Olufemi Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu, said the demolition was approved following structural assessments by relevant agencies, which confirmed that the building posed a significant risk to public safety.

He said the exercise would be conducted professionally and in line with global best practices to safeguard lives and property.

According to the agency, the immediate surroundings of the building will be cordoned off during the operation, with access restricted to prevent unauthorised entry.

LASEMA also announced that temporary traffic diversions would be introduced on adjoining streets to ensure the safety of road users and maintain the free flow of traffic.

The agency warned that the demolition could generate some noise and dust, appealing to residents and business operators in the neighbourhood to exercise patience and cooperate with emergency responders.

It urged motorists and members of the public to avoid the affected area as much as possible, use alternative routes where necessary and comply with safety instructions and diversion signs.

Oke-Osanyintolu said LASEMA, working with other relevant Lagos State agencies, would coordinate safety arrangements throughout the exercise to ensure the operation was conducted smoothly without harm to anyone.

The agency called on residents, traders and other business owners within the vicinity to cooperate fully with emergency management personnel and traffic officials.

It added that the Lagos State Government appreciated the understanding and cooperation of residents as part of ongoing efforts to improve public safety across the state.

The demolition is intended to address the risks associated with the distressed structure and protect lives and property in the surrounding area.