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Panic in Apapa as Fire Razes Offices at Customs Western Marine Command, Lagos Fire Service Intervenes Promptly
By Prince Benson Davies
The Nigeria Customs Service, Western Marine Command, has confirmed a fire outbreak that occurred at its premises in Apapa, Lagos, on Monday, 28 September 2026.
According to a statement issued by the Command, the incident occurred at about 1035 hours when thick smoke was noticed emanating from some offices within the Command, particularly the newly constructed conference hall, before escalating into a fire outbreak.
Officers on duty were said to have immediately activated emergency response protocols and made frantic efforts to contain the spread of the fire pending the arrival of professional firefighters.
Personnel of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service arrived at the scene at approximately 1125 hours and succeeded in bringing the fire under control, preventing it from spreading to other critical facilities within the Command.
Preliminary assessment showed that the fire affected some property and office equipment, but the Service confirmed that no life was lost and no injury was recorded.
The Command has commended its officers for their prompt response and appreciated the swift intervention of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service which helped avert what could have been a major disaster.
It further assured members of the public and stakeholders that core operations of the Western Marine Command remain intact and continue as normal, adding that the incident has not disrupted its operational efficiency.
To ascertain the immediate and remote causes of the outbreak and to prevent future recurrence, the Command has constituted an investigative committee to carry out a thorough probe and make appropriate recommendations. The Command reiterated its commitment to safeguarding its personnel, infrastructure and maintaining the highest standards of safety and security across all its formations.
