…the energy expert emphasized that Nigeria cannot afford to be lax in enforcing safety standards.
LAGOS, NIGERIA – The iNews Times | The recent fire outbreak at the Bank Towers Building in Lagos has drawn sharp reactions from national energy experts, who warn that the incident is yet another wake-up call on the dangers of poor safety compliance in power system installations.
The blaze, which reportedly originated from the building’s inverter room, triggered a swift response from emergency services but has since reignited national discourse on the importance of fire prevention in energy infrastructure particularly in high-rise and commercial buildings.
Reacting to the development, the National Committee on Energy Efficiency, Innovation, and Certification emphasized that Nigeria cannot afford to be lax in enforcing safety standards, especially in an era of increasing reliance on alternative power solutions like inverters and solar systems.
“This incident underscores the critical importance of rigorous safety protocols in energy management and building maintenance,” said Adinma Onochie, Technical Lead of the committee.
“It is not enough to pursue energy efficiency; safety must be embedded in the process from installation to daily operations.”
Mr. Onochie stressed that the committee remains committed to pushing for nationwide reforms in how energy systems especially those involving batteries, inverters, and related components are installed, certified, and maintained.
“We must enforce regular inspections and introduce innovative safety solutions. The Lagos fire is a harsh reminder that safety is not optional. It is a national responsibility,” he added.
While the exact extent of damage from the fire is still being assessed, no lives were lost an outcome many attribute to swift evacuation and early containment. However, the committee insists that prevention is more cost-effective than reaction, urging private and public stakeholders to treat this event as a serious red flag.
As the investigation continues, the spotlight now turns to building managers, technicians, and regulatory agencies, who are being called upon to tighten safety nets and revalidate existing power systems.
For many, the Lagos fire is not just an isolated event it is a mirror reflecting the urgent need for Nigeria to match energy innovation with uncompromising safety standards.
