How AI Can Prevent Fires and Protect Businesses
How AI Could Have Prevented the Afriland Towers Fire and Other Losses
When the Afriland Towers fire in Lagos and the Adidas store fire at Jabi Lake Mall in Abuja broke out, Nigerians watched helplessly as billions of naira worth of assets went up in flames. Both disasters followed a familiar pattern delayed detection, zero readiness, and total loss.
These tragedies were not acts of fate. They were failures of early detection and rapid intervention. The harsh reality is that Nigeria is still trying to solve 2025’s security and safety challenges with outdated systems and approaches from decades ago.
The Role of AI in Modern Safety and Security
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming industries worldwide, from healthcare to transportation. Yet, in Nigeria, many businesses and institutions still rely on systems that only react after damage occurs. That era must end.
AI can turn traditional CCTV cameras and security systems into intelligent, proactive tools capable of preventing disasters. Cover Alarm Systems, for example, has developed AI solutions designed for Nigerian conditions, transforming ordinary surveillance networks into advanced early-warning systems for fire, theft, and other threats.
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Turning Cameras into Smart Protectors
Once integrated with your existing CCTV setup whether analog or IP cameras AI-powered video analytics systems do far more than record footage. They analyze, detect, alert, and act instantly. Using over 60 advanced detection algorithms, these systems identify potential threats such as smoke, fire, intrusions, weapons, suspicious movement, blocked fire exits, missing extinguishers, abandoned items, or unauthorized persons.
“Our cameras no longer just watch, they think and act,” says Olanihun Ridwan, Founder and CEO of Cover Alarm Systems. “A camera that records only after an incident is not security; it is autopsy. Real security must detect and respond before danger escalates.”
How AI Could Have Saved Lives in the Afriland Fire
In the Afriland Towers and Adidas store fires, AI could have detected smoke and flames within seconds. Alerts would have gone directly to on-site personnel and Cover Alarm’s 24/7 monitoring headquarters in Abuja, triggering immediate verification and response.
Through integrated live broadcast speakers, the system could have warned occupants: “Attention! There is fire in the battery room! Evacuate immediately!” Such rapid intervention can save lives and prevent property loss.
“Our AI can monitor up to 1,000 CCTV cameras simultaneously without fail,” Ridwan explains. “It provides coverage beyond human capabilities and operates continuously. Every detection is backed by trained analysts in our command center, providing double protection.”
AI for Crime Prevention
AI monitoring also enhances security against theft and intrusion. Two-way speaker systems can communicate directly with intruders in local languages, stopping crimes before they escalate. Advanced facial recognition allows authorities to identify wanted individuals within seconds, even in large crowds, replicating success stories seen in countries like China.
A National Security Imperative
The time for reactive security is over. Federal and state governments, security agencies, and private organizations must adopt AI surveillance and alarm integration as a matter of national security. AI deployment can prevent disasters, protect assets, and save lives.
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Prevention Costs Far Less Than Loss
Too often, Nigerians wait for disaster to strike before acting. One fire, theft, or sabotage can cripple an organization and claim lives. “Do not wait until your building is the next headline,” Ridwan warns.
Cover Alarm can deploy AI-powered surveillance within 24 hours, linking premises directly to their 24/7 command center. Real-time monitoring ensures instant response to fires, intrusions, or theft.
The company also offers AI vehicle surveillance and MDVR systems to protect trucks and fleets, as well as fuel monitoring solutions to prevent diesel theft and operational losses.
Conclusion
AI is no longer a futuristic concept. It is a practical, life-saving technology that can prevent fires, theft, and other crises before they occur. For Nigerian businesses and institutions, adopting AI surveillance is no longer optional; it is essential. Early detection, rapid intervention, and intelligent monitoring are the keys to protecting lives and assets in 2025 and beyond.
Content Credit: Ohidah Oluwaferanmi
Image Credit: punchnewspaper.com
