The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Western Marine Command office in Apapa, Lagos, was engulfed in flames on Monday.
The incident, which happened at about 10:23am, destroyed property worth millions of naira.
The fire reportedly broke out after an electrical surge in the conference room, then spread to other sections of the building.
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 10:45 am
The Deputy Comptroller of Customs, Timothy Jonah, confirmed the incident, saying it will only strengthen the resolve of the command to do better.
Jonah, who had just resumed at the command to take over from his predecessor, stated that a committee would be set up to investigate the cause of the fire.
He also said steps would be taken to strengthen safety protocols and prevent a recurrence
He said: “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.”
Jonah commended the swift response of personnel on duty and their collaboration with the fire service.
