BY NKECHI NAECHE-ESEZOBOR—The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has confirmed that all 14 persons initially trapped in the Control Tower during the fire incident at Terminal 1 of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, have been safely rescued and evacuated.
According to the agency, emergency response teams have largely contained the blaze, with coordinated firefighting, rescue, and safety operations preventing further spread and ensuring the protection of lives and critical infrastructure.
A total of six (6) casualties — comprising three males and three females — were recorded, all of whom are in stable condition. One affected individual has been transferred to the FAAN Headquarters Hospital for further medical evaluation and remains stable.
As an additional safety precaution, the sixth floor of the affected facility has been completely evacuated to support ongoing emergency operations and risk mitigation.
Preliminary findings from the Fire Service indicate that the fire originated from the server room on the first floor of Terminal 1. The fire within the departure hall is now largely under control, while responders continue close monitoring to prevent any spread to adjoining sections of the terminal.
In line with established safety protocols, the airspace remains temporarily closed. Meanwhile, the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) is actively working to establish a temporary Control Tower to enable the safe and timely restoration of airport operations as soon as practicable.
FAAN confirms that all emergency procedures were promptly activated and continues to collaborate with relevant emergency and support agencies to safeguard lives, infrastructure, and operational integrity.
Further verified updates will be communicated as more information becomes available.
