Afriland Towers Fire: Death Toll Rises to 10 as United Capital Confirms Loss of Six Staff

The death toll from the devastating fire at Afriland Towers on Broad Street, Lagos Island, has climbed to 10, following confirmation that six employees of United Capital Plc lost their lives in the incident.

The six-storey commercial building was engulfed in flames on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, after a fire reportedly broke out in the inverter room located in the basement around 1:30 p.m. Thick smoke quickly filled the building, sending occupants into panic. Some were seen making desperate attempts to escape through windows using ladders, while emergency responders battled the blaze.

United Capital, which occupied the 3rd and 4th floors of the tower, confirmed the deaths of six of its staff members in a statement released Thursday morning.

“It is with profound grief that the Management and Staff of United Capital Plc announce the passing of six of our dear colleagues, following the tragic fire at Afriland Towers.

“Our departed colleagues were an integral part of our company and family. Their painful loss leaves an immeasurable void. We extend our deepest condolences to their families, friends, and loved ones, and we continue to hold them in our thoughts and prayers, while providing every support we can during this difficult time.

“Preparations are underway for an appropriate memorial service to honour their lives with dignity and solemnity. We thank the emergency services and all those who responded for their valiant assistance at the time of the incident.

“In this moment of untold grief, we stand together in solidarity, drawing strength from one another. May the souls of the departed rest in peace.”

This confirmation came hours after the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) disclosed that four of its senior staff also died in the inferno, bringing the total fatalities to 10.

Emergency responders, including the Federal Fire Service and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, rescued at least nine individuals. Five were successfully revived, while four remained unconscious.

The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service stated on Tuesday:

“A total of nine victims have been rescued. Five individuals have been resuscitated. Several others escaped unhurt, while efforts are ongoing to revive the remaining four.”

Although official casualty figures have yet to be formally released by emergency agencies, eyewitnesses and insiders had earlier confirmed that “not everyone made it out alive.”

Attempts to reach the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) for further updates were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.