A three-storey building under construction collapsed on Friday night, September 12, 2025, at 333 Borno Street, Alagomeji, Yaba, Lagos State, leaving several persons trapped under the debris.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) confirmed the incident in a statement on Saturday via its official X handle, noting that the collapse occurred at about 8:30 p.m.
According to eyewitness reports, between five and six individuals were initially feared trapped. Emergency responders have, however, rescued four adult males alive and taken them to a hospital for urgent medical care.
Rescue Efforts Underway
Officials from NEMA, the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, and other first responders swiftly mobilised to the scene and began coordinated search-and-rescue operations.
NEMA disclosed that while the exact number of persons still trapped remains uncertain, efforts are ongoing to locate and evacuate survivors.
“Emergency officials have cordoned off the site to ensure safety and smooth rescue operations. The search and rescue effort is continuing into the night, and no effort will be spared to save lives,” the agency stated.
Recurring Menace in Lagos
Building collapses remain a recurring tragedy in Lagos and other Nigerian cities, frequently linked to poor construction standards, substandard materials, and weak regulatory oversight.
Civil society groups and government data indicate that dozens of such incidents are recorded annually, leading to loss of lives, severe injuries, and displacement of residents.
Authorities in Lagos have repeatedly warned developers against unsafe practices, sealing several non-compliant structures in recent years. Despite these measures, unsafe construction remains a pressing challenge.
As of press time, search operations are still ongoing in Yaba, with officials urging the public to stay clear of the site to allow emergency teams unhindered access.
