Fresh FM Nigeria has confirmed that a massive fire outbreak destroyed its head office in the Challenge area of Ibadan on Friday evening, August 15, 2025, causing extensive damage to its broadcasting complex.
In a statement signed by the Group Head of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Samson Akindele, the station described the incident as a “devastating inferno” that severely affected critical sections of the facility.
According to the statement, the blaze gutted the studios of Fresh 105.9 FM and Blast 98.3 FM, as well as adjoining offices, including the newsroom, transmitter and server room, and several key pieces of broadcast equipment. The fire reportedly broke out while the station was live on air.
Staff members made initial efforts to contain the flames using in-house extinguishers before firefighters arrived, but the intensity of the outbreak made the attempts unsuccessful.
While the exact cause of the fire has yet to be determined, Fresh FM management disclosed that a full assessment of the damage is currently ongoing. The station, however, expressed deep appreciation to residents, passersby, and officials of the Oyo State Fire Service who joined hands to combat the blaze and prevent further destruction.
“We heartily appreciate all good-spirited Nigerians who stood by us during the emergency,” the statement read.
Fresh FM assured listeners and stakeholders that updates on the cause of the incident and the extent of damage would be provided after investigations are concluded.
This is not the first setback for the Ibadan-based radio station. In 2018, its Music House complex was partially demolished by the Oyo State government, sparking widespread controversy.
The fire comes at a particularly difficult time, as Fresh FM was preparing to mark its 10th anniversary of broadcasting. Founded by veteran gospel singer Dr. Yinka Ayefele, the station has grown into one of the most influential private radio brands in the South-West, with its Ibadan headquarters serving as the hub of operations.
