By Modeyin Kingsley
The rising cases of building collapse across Nigeria have claimed countless lives, destroyed valuable properties, and shattered public confidence in the construction industry.
Most recently, the collapse of a three-storey building housing the Equal Right Restaurant on Oremeta Street, Ojodu, Lagos, on Saturday, April 19, 2025, added to the long list of tragedies—including the infamous 21-storey collapse in Ikoyi, Lagos, in 2021.
These incidents reflect deep-rooted structural and systemic failures that demand urgent attention and decisive action.
CORE CAUSES OF BUILDING COLLAPSE IN NIGERIA:
1. Use of substandard materials due to cost-cutting or ignorance.
2. Poor structural design and inadequate soil testing.
3. Engagement of unqualified personnel in design and supervision.
4. Non-compliance with building codes and safety standards.
5. Weak regulatory enforcement, worsened by corruption or negligence.
6. Overloading and illegal modifications of buildings.
7. Bypassing qualified professionals, leading to compromised safety and integrity.
STRATEGIC MEASURES FOR LASTING SOLUTION’S
1. Mandatory Use of Certified Professionals: Only licensed experts should handle every stage of construction—from design to delivery. Multidisciplinary collaboration among engineers, architects, and surveyors must be enforced.
2. Compulsory Structural Audit Policy: Periodic inspections and structural testing should be mandated, especially for old and high-rise buildings.
3. Strict Enforcement of Building Codes: Regulatory agencies must enforce compliance without compromise. Defaulters should face stiff penalties, including prosecution and demolition of substandard structures.
4. Establishment of Construction Tribunals: Special courts should fast-track cases involving negligence, fraud, or malpractice in construction.
5. Empowerment of Regulatory Agencies: Agencies like Physical Planning Authorities must be equipped with skilled manpower, advanced technology, and the political will to act decisively. Every building must have approved plans and structural drawings.
6. Zero Tolerance for Corrupt Officials: Officers found compromising standards should face immediate dismissal and legal sanctions to restore integrity to the system.
7. PUBLIC AWARENESS CAMPAIGNS :
The public must be educated on the dangers of using quacks and cutting corners in construction.
CONCLUSION:
Nigeria stands at a turning point. We can no longer ignore the deadly consequences of building collapse. It is time to embrace a culture of responsible construction—where professionalism is honored, regulations are upheld, and every structure becomes a symbol of life, not a trap of death.
Rotarian ESV Modeyin Bayo Kingsley is the
Irresistible Magical President
Rotary Club of Olambe
2024/2025 Rotary Year
