The Federal Fire Service has said that three major fire outbreaks recorded within 32 hours in the Federal Capital Territory led to losses estimated at over ₦650 million in January 2026.
The Service said the incidents, which occurred at different locations across the FCT, were caused by suspected electrical surges and overloading.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the National Public Relations Officer of the Federal Fire Service, DCF P. O. Abraham.
According to the statement, the most recent fire incident occurred in the early hours of Monday, January 19, 2026, at Corner Shops, Chalyx Close, Abacha Road, Maraba, along the Abuja–Keffi axis, where six retail outlets were affected.
“The emergency was reported at 02:51 hours by ASP Abdulmalik to the Federal Fire Service National Headquarters, Garki Station.
“The Station Commander, SF Agbo, immediately mobilised response teams, with the FFS Nyanya Station providing backup support,” the statement read.
It added that despite a late distress call, firefighters were able to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading further.
“Property estimated at approximately ₦100 million was saved out of ₦400 million exposed to the fire,” the Service said.
The statement noted that the Maraba fire occurred just 14 hours after the Kugbo Furniture Market fire, which itself happened 18 hours after the Leventis Plaza fire.
“Preliminary assessments indicate that all three incidents were triggered by suspected electrical surges.
“Due to the prompt intervention of Federal Fire Service responders and supporting agencies, property valued at over ₦2.8 billion was preserved from destruction across the three emergencies,” it added.
Commenting on the development, the Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service, Olumode Samuel Adeyemi, warned residents and business owners against electrical overloading.
“These preventable incidents led to losses amounting to ₦650 million in just 32 hours. If someone had simply turned off the switch, many of these losses could have been avoided,” Adeyemi said.
The Service reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and urged the public to observe basic fire safety measures, including switching off electrical appliances when not in use.
“Timely call brings timely intervention and reduces loss,” the statement added.
Members of the public were also advised to report fire outbreaks and related emergencies through the Federal Fire Service emergency line on 0803 200 3557 for prompt response.
