UBA on Tuesday denied reports of a fire outbreak at its Lagos Island branch.
In a statement signed by Ramon Nasir, Group Head, Media and External Relations, the bank clarified: “We are aware of the fire incident at a building on Broad Street, Lagos Island, which incidentally houses one of our branches.
Contrary to reports on social media, the affected building is not UBA House, Marina, our head office.
We have ensured the safety and well-being of our staff, customers, and visitors in the building.”
Several workers were trapped after a fire broke out at the Afriland Building on Broad Street, Lagos Island, Lagos, on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, according to a BBC report.
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Various videos circulating on social media show the moment workers jumped from windows in a desperate attempt to escape the blaze.
The fire quickly drew public attention, with thick smoke and flames rising into the air as bystanders brought out their phones to record the incident.
According to the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, they are currently battling the fire. The agency stated that it received the distress call at 1:38 p.m., and fire crews from the Ebute Elefun Fire Station and the Sari Iganmu Fire Station responded promptly.
The fire reportedly originated in the inverter room located in the basement of the building. Smoke has since spread across multiple floors, engulfing much of the structure.
“Evacuation of occupants is ongoing, while firefighting operations have helped ease the initial panic before the arrival of the first responders,” the Fire Service stated.
In one of the videos, a man can be seen climbing down the building while others hold a ladder to assist him.
