Building Collapse: LSMTL, Engineers organise walk to sensitize against use of quacks

The Lagos State Materials Testing Laboratory (LSMTL) in collaboration with Nigerian Institution Of Civil Engineers (NICE) has organised an advocacy walk to sensitize against the use of unqualified engineers for building construction.

Speaking during the 5.5km walk, the General Manager of LSMTL, Engr. Olayinka Abdul called for the deliberate adoption of core professionals into the construction of building projects for durable structures.

Abdul emphasised that the rising challenges in the built industry reflect a critical juncture where there must be reaffirmation to commitment and quality, as well as safety and integrity of the structures being erected.

She said, “We gather here on a common front united in a common purpose, to mitigate the risks that contribute to building collapse while promoting sustainable construction practices. It is disheartening, however, that there are quite alarming statistics on building collapse.

“It not only leads to loss of lives, but also represents significant economic costs, community trauma, and a breach of the trust our society places in us as builders and enforcers of safety in the Engineering Industry.

“Once you have an idea, get the right person, tell them your plan, and let the professionals be your designers. Let them be your advisors, let them tell you what steps to take. Once you engage them, starting from materials procurement to others, then you will have done the right thing,” the General Manager advised.

While encouraging optimal work commitments, Engr. Abdul implored Nigerians to desist from selecting random people in their building projects, adding that many intricacies in building systems require strict adherence to streamlined processes to effectively curb episodes of collapse.

She said that the professionals who are trained on how to solve any problem can efficiently address issues that emanate during the construction of projects.

Also Speaking, the National Chairman of NICE, Engr. Tokunbo Ajanaku, who commended the enthusiasm exuded by participants, said, “What we have started is a journey to take back our profession and the built environment space. NICE is committed to sustaining the advocacy and stepping it up to shaping policy and ensuring containment of the menace of building collapse. Let us continue to advocate, and say no to building and Infrastructure collapse, in Nigeria”

The Chairman of Lagos Chapter, Engr. Faith Oko-Ukoni informed that the sensitization initiative was targeted at educating members of the Public on how to ensure that Lagos State is free of building and infrastructure collapse.

Oko-Ukoni reiterated the need for all Nigerians to build right, build safely and use the right professionals to avoid the menace of building collapse.

“We know that building collapse cannot be eradicated, but we can reduce it. After today’s exercise, we hope we will be able to talk to someone, too. We are advocating for the right professionals to build our building and infrastructure,” she opined.

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