A devastating fire swept through the Akim timber market in Calabar, Cross River State, on a Friday night, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The inferno, which broke out in the evening after most traders had closed for the day, razed over 100 shops, causing significant losses for the traders who operate from the market. Eyewitnesses estimate that the market contained multi-million naira worth of planks and other timber products.
The cause of the fire remains unknown, but it is the latest in a series of fire incidents to hit Cross River State in recent times. Last week, a gas explosion at a filling station in Calabar injured at least 60 people, while cars and nearby houses were destroyed. In January, the Federal Fire Service, Cross River Command reported that N3 billion worth of property was lost to 18 fire incidents in the state in 2025.
The Akim timber market is a key hub for timber and related businesses in the state capital, and its destruction is likely to have far-reaching consequences for the local economy. Traders who had left for the day rushed back to assess damage and salvage what they could, but many were left with nothing. The state fire service has yet to issue a statement regarding the incident.
The recent spate of fire incidents in Cross River State is a cause for concern, particularly given the devastating impact they have on local businesses and the economy. The Akim timber market, which was destroyed in the latest fire, is a key hub for timber and related businesses in the state capital. The state government must take immediate action to address the root causes of these fires and prevent them from happening in the future. This includes improving the state's fire service and ensuring that traders have access to adequate safety measures. The consequences of inaction will be felt by everyday Nigerians, who are already struggling to make ends meet.
