By Lukman Olabiyi
Lagos State Governor Babatunde Sanwo-Olu has expressed deep concern over the widespread neglect of building codes in Nigeria, emphasizing that adherence to these codes could significantly mitigate the issue of building collapses.
The governor expressed his concern during the second edition of the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) event, themed “Professionalism Across Board in the Built Environment.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted the major challenge faced by the government: the lack of strict adherence to building codes by homeowners and developers.
He stressed the importance of proper construction to ensure safe, healthy, and durable buildings for future generations.
“It is crucial at this point to enforce building regulations rigorously to prevent the construction of illegal, poorly built structures that endanger the wellbeing of Lagos residents,” he said.
He emphasized that only qualified professionals such as builders, architects, structural/civil engineers, geologists, mechanical, and electrical engineers should be involved in construction projects.
Sanwo-Olu asserted that involving these professionals could address 70% of the challenges related to building collapses.
“Consequently, it is now mandatory for all building projects in the state to engage relevant professionals,” he held.
The governor also urged professional bodies to register qualified candidates promptly, to foster professionalism and eliminate quackery in the sector.
He called on the bodies to track non-members and enforce strict measures against those not adhering to professional conduct codes.
Earlier, the general manager of LASBCA, Ggbolahan Oki praised the engagement as a step towards fostering dialogue, knowledge sharing, and collaboration among stakeholders in the construction sector.
He noted that the agency has made significant progress in upholding building standards, leading to a reduction in collapses, but acknowledged that further improvements are needed.
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