Lagos Safety Commission holds Fire Safety Workshop at Holloway Market

By Our Reporter

The Lagos State Safety Commission has organized a comprehensive fire safety workshop for traders at Holloway Market, Lagos Island, as part of ongoing efforts to curb the rising incidence of market fires across the state.

The sensitization programme brought together market stakeholders, safety officials, and traders to address common causes of fire outbreaks and promote preventive strategies within marketplace environments.

The Director General of Lagos State Safety Commission, Mr. Lanre Mojola, who was represented by Director Public Safety and Wellbeing, Mrs Omowunmi Ibraheem, in the keynote address stated that safety is a collective responsibility which cannot be overemphasized

He urged participants to listen attentively and adhere strictly to the safety guidelines and precautionary measures that would be discussed during the training.

Delivering the first lecture, Engr. (Mrs.) Adekunbi Obamonire of the Risk Management and Regulatory Affairs Department at the Commission highlighted critical safety precautions necessary to reduce fire hazards in markets.

Obamonire expressed concern over widespread indiscriminate electrical connections, poorly managed wiring systems, and obstructed walkways that often hamper emergency response efforts.

According to her, improper monitoring of electrical appliances and failure to conduct routine risk assessments significantly increase vulnerability to fire incidents, urging traders to regularly inspect their electrical installations, avoid overloading power outlets, and ensure compliance with safety standards.

The second lecture, delivered by Mr. Afeez Adesanya, focused extensively on the causes and consequences of market fires, describing market fires as highly destructive incidents that can devastate livelihoods, destroy investments, and endanger lives.

“Fire outbreaks in marketplaces are often caused by electrical faults, gas cookers, and unsafe operational practices. 

"When they occur, the aftermath affects not only traders but also the surrounding community," he said.

He explained that markets are particularly susceptible to fire disasters due to congestion, the storage of inflammable goods, and the frequent use of cooking appliances and power generators. 

Stressing the economic implications, he noted that prevention remained far more cost-effective than post-disaster recovery and, therefore, called on all stakeholders, including traders, market leaders, and regulatory authorities to commit to maintaining a safe and fire-free environment through strict adherence to safety protocols.

The workshop forms part of broader state initiatives aimed at strengthening public safety awareness, reducing fire outbreaks, and safeguarding lives and property across Lagos markets.