Fires continue to ravage markets in Nigeria. Markets are an integral part of every country as it contributes toward its economic growth. Despite several stakeholders meetings and collaborative action by the government and concerned regulatory bodies, there seems to be no end to this menace in sight. The recent fire outbreak in the popular Balogun market located on Lagos Island, Lagos is just one of the numerous
outbreaks in the country.
The extent of the impact of these incidents may not be directly and immediately quantifiable. It has been linked to loss of means of livelihood, financial losses, increase in poverty index and dependent ratio, mental health challenges from trauma, and medical costs for treatment of resulting injuries suffered by victims. It is one singular factor leading to waste in any economy.
Reports have it that in 2021, no fewer than 136 lives and properties worth over N3 Trillion were lost to fire incidents across the country. The safety concerns relating to these fire outbreaks include: poor housekeeping, poorly ventilated clustered buildings and shops, illegal electrical connections, inappropriate use of electrical equipment, indiscriminate storage of petrol and use of generators, carelessness, ignorance and sometimes arson.
The swift response of the Lagos State Fire Service, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency and other relevant agencies is highly commendable. However, we need to do more to be more proactive than reactive. As the saying goes, ‘once bitten twice shy’. In the pathetic case of the Balogun market, news has it that fire outbreak in the area has become a recurrent incident, the most recent being the fifth.
In order to prevent future occurrences, safety must be prioritized. There should be a renewed commitment to safety, not just in beautiful prints but through deliberate actions and collaborative efforts among all concerned stakeholders. An experienced safety oriented management team should be created to oversee all the activities in the market. Continual public enlightenment and training to raise awareness on fire prevention
techniques and emergency plans is necessary.
Also, as a risk mitigation strategy, there should be enforcement of fire insurance cover
so as to provide some financial protection for the market and traders.
In conclusion, it is recommended that health and safety professionals should be involved in the planning of new markets and enforcement of structural building regulations. Also some allocation should be made to take care of sprawling growth in urban population. Safety is not just a word but should be a culture and until this is
achieved, we may remain vulnerable to avoidable harm.
