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The Federal Capital Territory was hit by a spate of fire outbreaks in January 2026, with at least three major incidents recorded within 32 hours, causing estimated property losses exceeding N650m, the Federal Fire Service has said.
The incidents, which occurred at different locations across the FCT, were attributed to suspected electrical surges and overloading.
This was confirmed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the National Public Relations Officer of the service, DCF P. O. Abraham.
The most recent fire broke out in the early hours of Monday, January 19, 2026, at Corner Shops, Chalyx Close, Abacha Road, Maraba, along the Abuja–Keffi axis, affecting six retail outlets.
“The emergency was reported at 02:51 hours by ASP Abdulmalik to the Federal Fire Service National Headquarters, Garki Station.
“Despite a late emergency call, firefighters contained the fire and prevented further escalation, saving property estimated at approximately N100m out of N400m exposed to the blaze”he said.
Federal Fire Service stated that it “occurred barely 14 hours after the KUGBO Furniture Market fire, which itself came 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 N2.8bn was preserved from destruction across the three emergencies.”
The Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service, Olumode Samuel Adeyemi, warned residents and business operators against electrical overloading and urged them to adopt strict safety practices.
“These preventable incidents led to losses amounting to N650m in just 32 hours. If someone had simply turned off the switch, many of these losses could have been avoided,” Adeyemi said.
The Federal Fire Service reiterated its commitment to the protection of lives and property and called on 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,”.
