The Federal Fire Service has contained a midnight fire outbreak at De Bently Hotel in the Utako area of Abuja, preventing the flames from spreading to nearby buildings.
The fire incident occurred late on March 9, 2026, in a four-storey commercial building covering about 500 square metres. Firefighters responded quickly and were able to bring the situation under control.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the National Public Relations Officer of the service, Paul Abraham, the fire was reported at about 8:28 pm.
Personnel from the Wuse Fire Station were immediately deployed to the scene and arrived within 10 minutes to begin firefighting operations.
The Controller General of the Federal Fire Service, Olumode Adeyemi, personally led the emergency response team during the operation.
Firefighters used multiple water jets, fire appliances and tenders to contain the blaze and stop it from spreading to nearby properties.
Preliminary findings suggest that the fire may have been caused by a gas explosion, although investigations are still ongoing to determine the exact cause.
Authorities said the property involved in the incident was estimated to be worth about N1 billion.
Out of the total value, about N650 million worth of property was successfully saved by the firefighters, while an estimated N350 million worth of property was affected by the fire.
Fortunately, no casualties, injuries, or loss of life were recorded during the incident.
Police patrol teams and other supporting firefighting units were also present at the scene to provide security and assist in emergency operations.
The Controller General commended the swift response of the firefighters, noting that their professionalism helped prevent the fire from turning into a more devastating disaster.
A team of fire investigators has been deployed to determine both the immediate and remote causes of the blaze.
The Federal Fire Service has also urged hotel operators, businesses and members of the public to strictly follow fire safety regulations, especially when handling gas cylinders and other combustible materials.
The agency further advised the public to promptly report fire incidents in order to reduce damage and prevent the loss of lives and property.