Sanwo-Olu harps on professionalism to curb building collapse

The Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has emphasised the importance of professionalism and adherence to building regulations in addressing building collapse in the state.

Sanwo-Olu said this at the second edition of the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) stakeholders engagement, on Thursday, in Lagos.

It was reported that the LASBCA stakeholders engagement, which focused on the critical issue of building collapse in Lagos State, had the theme, “Professionalism Across Board in the Built Environment.”

He said, “Professionalism in the built environment in Nigeria, particularly in Lagos State, which I represent, is a critical undertaking that demands our attention and commitment.

“Our urban areas are experiencing rapid population growth which places tremendous pressure on our existing infrastructural facilities.

“One major challenge we face as a government, is citizens strict adherence to building codes which often translates to complete disregard to building regulations by home owners and developers.

“While we realise that shelter is of utmost importance, we constantly advocate that as responsible citizens, there is a need to build right in order to have buildings that are safe, healthy and preserved for future generation.

‘It is very crucial at this point in our history to enforce building regulations to the latter so as to prevent illegal, haphazard and poorly constructed buildings that is detrimental to the wellbeing of Lagosians.”

Sanwo-Olu said the state government would continue to advocate that only professionals should be engaged in building constructions in the state.

“The question you might want to ask is, who are the professionals that should be engaged in the building construction industry?

“The answer is not far-fetched, they are: builders, architects, structural/civil engineers, geologists, mechanical and electrical engineers.

“I daresay that engaging only these professionals will solve 70 per cent of the challenges of building collapse across the state.

“Therefore, it is now mandatory that all relevant professionals in the built environment are fully engaged in any building construction in the state,” he said.
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The General Manager, LASBCA, Mr Gbolahan Oki, emphasised the importance of collaboration to improve the built environment in Lagos State.

He said, “Today’s engagement is a testament to our collective dedication. It provides a platform for open dialogue, knowledge sharing, and collaboration among all stakeholders in the building and construction sector.

“Your presence here reflects a shared commitment to excellence and a readiness to work towards common goals.

Oki noted the agency had successfully reduced building collapses through its efforts.

“LASBCA has made significant strides in ensuring adherence to building standards and codes, resulting in a notable decline in building collapses. These positive outcomes are a testament to our efforts,” he said.

Oki said the Certified Accreditors Programme was introduced by the government to involve professionals in the approval and inspection processes, and to further regulate the built industry.

The general manager stressed the agency’s commitment to upholding high standards, safety, and innovation in the built environment.

Mrs Ruth Adebisi, a developer, applauded the government’s commitment to improving excellence in building and construction.

Adebisi said that her members would ensure proper scrutiny of materials to be used for any building.

It was reported that over 4,000 stakeholders in the built environment attended the programme.