The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed that welding sparks were responsible for the fire outbreak that razed parts of a major market in Sokoto State, destroying about 60 shops. The incident, which occurred during business hours, caused panic among traders as flames spread rapidly through sections of the market.

According to NEMA officials, preliminary findings revealed that sparks from welding activities ignited nearby flammable materials, leading to the inferno. Although no lives were reportedly lost, goods worth millions of naira were destroyed in the blaze. Emergency responders, with support from local authorities and firefighters, were able to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to other parts of the market.

NEMA said it has begun a damage assessment to determine the extent of losses and identify ways to support affected traders. The agency also urged market operators to enforce safety regulations, particularly regarding the use of open flames and electrical equipment, to prevent similar incidents in the future.