A major fire outbreak on Saturday morning devastated several businesses at the New Mile 3 area along the Gombe Yola Road in Gombe State, destroying shops, roadside kiosks and restaurant outlets.
The inferno, which reportedly started around 3am, spread quickly through the commercial stretch and consumed goods and properties valued at millions of naira. Early assessments indicated that more than 80 per cent of the affected business zone was lost to the blaze.
Despite the scale of destruction, authorities confirmed that no lives were lost and no injuries were recorded.
Speaking on the incident, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Security Matters and Intergovernmental Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Danbayo, said the quick mobilisation of emergency responders helped avert a more devastating outcome.
“The fire started around 0300 hours and spread very fast, affecting shops, mini containers and restaurants,” Danbayo said. “We are grateful to Almighty God that no life was lost despite the severity of the situation.”
He applauded security personnel for their coordinated response and for safeguarding the area during the emergency.
“The professionalism of the security agencies including the Tumfure and Pantami Divisions, as well as Operation Hattara was commendable. Their presence ensured his crowd control and prevented the situation from escalating,” he noted.
Danbayo also credited the firefighting teams for their prompt and tireless efforts in containing the flames.
“The Federal Fire Service, the Gombe State University Fire Service and the Union of Tank Truck Water Sellers worked continuously, supplying water and deploying fire engines.
Their intervention stopped the fire from reaching nearby fuel stations, which could have caused a catastrophic explosion,” he explained.
He further acknowledged the contributions of community leaders and stakeholders, saying their involvement helped limit further damage.
“Under the leadership of Alhaji Auwal Abdulkadir, Chairman of Mile 3, and with the support of other local stakeholders, the situation was managed effectively to ensure the safety of residents,” he added.
Danbayo described the collaboration among responders, community members and authorities as “a reflection of strong commitment to public safety and effective emergency management in Gombe State
