The newly deployed Deputy Comptroller of Customs, Timothy Jonah, was confronted with a fire outbreak on his first day at the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Western Marine Command in Apapa, Lagos.
The fire, which destroyed property worth millions of naira, broke out at about 10:23am on Monday, shortly after Jonah resumed to take over from his predecessor.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, officers on duty made frantic efforts to contain the fire before officials of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service arrived at about 10:45am.
Jonah described the incident as unfortunate, saying he had just resumed duty when the fire broke out.
“I just resumed duty to take over, only to witness this fire outbreak.
“Every challenge, though negative, is an opportunity to strengthen our operations.
“In the meantime, we will set up a committee to investigate the cause of the fire.”
The fire reportedly started following an electrical surge in the conference room before spreading to other sections of the building.
Jonah commended the personnel on duty for their swift response and collaboration with the fire service.
He added that measures would be taken to strengthen safety protocols and prevent a recurrence.
