By Achile Danjuma
A fire broke out early Monday morning at the Federal Secretariat complex in Abuja, causing significant disruption and panic among civil servants and visitors.
The blaze originated in Section C of the expansive complex, specifically within a portion of the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. Thick plumes of black smoke were seen billowing from the affected area shortly after the first reports emerged around 8:20 a.m.
Videos circulating on social media showed smoke rising above the structure as staff evacuated the premises and onlookers gathered at a safe distance. Security personnel were seen assisting in the evacuation and cordoning off the area to facilitate the emergency response.
Emergency responders were quickly mobilized to the scene to contain the flames and prevent them from spreading to adjacent sections of the building, which houses numerous federal ministries and agencies.
As of the time of this report, the cause of the fire remains unknown. Authorities have not yet released an official statement regarding the extent of the damage or any potential casualties. An investigation is expected to commence once the scene has been fully secured.
The Federal Secretariat in Abuja is a pivotal administrative hub for Nigeria’s civil service, accommodating the headquarters of several key government departments.