In the early hours of today, a massive fire broke out at Focus Holiday Inn, a renowned hotel in the Garki area of Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, causing significant damage to the three-story structure. The blaze, which began at approximately 3 a.m., was first noticed by a guest who raised the alarm after spotting smoke.
According to eyewitness accounts, the fire quickly spread across multiple sections of the hotel, leaving staff and guests in a state of panic. Initial attempts to contact the fire service reportedly faced delays, allowing the flames to engulf much of the building before emergency responders arrived.
Firefighters eventually managed to bring the situation under control after hours of relentless effort. However, by the time the fire was extinguished, the hotel had sustained extensive structural damage. The exact cause of the blaze is still under investigation, though early reports suggest it originated in one section of the building.
The incident has raised serious questions about the hotel’s preparedness for emergencies. Guests and staff were evacuated, and authorities are currently monitoring the situation to ensure everyone’s safety. It remains unclear whether there were any injuries or fatalities, as the hotel management has yet to issue an official statement.
Local residents and business owners in the Garki area expressed concerns about the delayed response from fire services, emphasizing the need for improved emergency infrastructure in the city.
Focus Holiday Inn has long been a popular accommodation for both locals and visitors, and its temporary closure will undoubtedly affect tourism and local commerce. Authorities are being urged to expedite investigations, provide support for those affected, and implement stricter safety measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
As the community awaits updates on the investigation and the hotel’s future, this tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety protocols and efficient emergency response systems.
