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NPMA Appeals to Nigerian Government for Compensation After Lagos Market Fire

Published by Akinwale Fakinlede on February 20th, 2026.

NPMA Appeals to Nigerian Government for Compensation After Lagos Market Fire

The National Palm Produce Merchants Association (NPMA) has called on the Federal Government to urgently intervene and compensate traders affected by the recent inferno that ravaged a major market in Lagos State.

The devastating fire, which broke out in the early hours of the morning, destroyed shops, warehouses and goods worth millions of naira. Many traders, particularly those dealing in palm oil, palm kernel and other agro-products, were left counting heavy losses as flames consumed their means of livelihood.

Speaking on behalf of the association, NPMA leaders described the incident as a tragic setback for small and medium-scale traders who rely on daily market activities to sustain their families. They noted that most of the affected members had invested their life savings into their businesses and now face uncertainty about how to recover.

According to the association, the fire has not only disrupted individual businesses but also affected the wider supply chain of palm produce across Lagos and neighboring states. The market, known as a key distribution hub, plays a critical role in linking rural producers with urban consumers. Its temporary shutdown could lead to supply shortages and potential price increases.

NPMA representatives urged the Federal Government and the Lagos State Government to provide immediate relief in the form of financial compensation, soft loans and grants to help victims rebuild. They also called for improved fire safety infrastructure in major markets, including functional hydrants, regular inspections and better emergency response systems.

The association further appealed to agencies such as the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to assess the level of damage and facilitate prompt support for those affected. They stressed that swift intervention would prevent traders from sliding into deeper economic hardship.

Some traders who spoke at the scene expressed frustration, saying they had repeatedly called for improved safety measures in the market. They lamented the absence of adequate firefighting equipment and described the response to the blaze as delayed.

While investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing, the incident has once again raised concerns about the vulnerability of Nigeria’s informal market sector to disasters. Market fires have become a recurring problem in different parts of the country, often leaving traders without insurance coverage or access to structured financial support.

NPMA maintained that beyond emergency relief, there is a need for long-term reforms, including mandatory insurance schemes for market associations and stronger collaboration between traders and government agencies.

As affected traders begin the painful task of sorting through debris and salvaging what little remains, the association hopes the government’s response will reflect a commitment to protecting small businesses, which remain the backbone of Nigeria’s economy.