The Kwara State Fire Service rescued a middle-aged nursing mother and her one-year-old child from a life-threatening fire in Awolowo, Tanke area of Ilorin South Local Government on Thursday.

City Round reported that the woman and her child were asleep when their residence caught fire, but were awoken by the commotion of bystanders who noticed smoke billowing from the house. A resident, Mr Owolabi, alerted neighbours and promptly informed the fire service about the blaze.

According to a statement by Principal Fire Officer Hassan Adekunle, Head of Media and Publicity for the service, the fire alert was received at approximately 1:45 pm. Firefighters swiftly arrived at the scene, evacuating the mother and child to safety. The incident underscores the importance of community vigilance and rapid emergency responses in preventing tragedies.

“On Thursday, March 20th, 2025, at about 13:44 hours, the Kwara State Fire Service received an emergency alert regarding a fire outbreak at No. 8 Aiyegbede Street, Awolowo, Tanke, Ilorin.

“The fire crew responded immediately and swiftly commenced firefighting operations upon arrival. The affected structure was a two-flat residential building consisting of a three-bedroom flat and a two-bedroom flat. Fortunately, only the sitting room of the two-bedroom flat sustained fire damage.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the fire was first noticed by Mr Owolabi, who promptly alerted other residents. Thanks to their quick response, a mother and her child, who were asleep at the time, were rescued unharmed. The incident was traced to a power surge in the area,” the statement said.

City Round gathered that the fire destroyed furniture, electronics and decorations in the sitting room and dining room

The Director of the Kwara State Fire Service, Prince Falade John, sympathised with the affected occupants of the building.

Falade also stressed the importance of fire safety precautions in homes, shops, and other areas of commercial activities at all times.

He commended the residents for their bravery in assisting the victims and encouraged members of the public to always look out for one another in times of emergency.