Building collapse: Sanwo-Olu launches new regulatory initiative to strengthen controls

By Adeola Ogunrinde

The Lagos State Government has introduced a new regulatory initiative to address deficiencies in the built environment. On Monday, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu launched the Certified Accreditors Programme (CAP)—a transformative model aimed at fostering safer, more compliant, and sustainable urban planning in Lagos.

The initiative, designed to enforce strict adherence to standard building practices, was unveiled before a large gathering of stakeholders from both the public and private sectors at White Stone Event Centre in Oregun.

CAP is a stakeholder-driven intervention, developed as part of the recommendations from a panel set up by Governor Sanwo-Olu in 2021. The panel was tasked with advising the State Government on practical steps to curb building collapses and prevent the associated loss of lives.

Following the Governor’s approval, the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) screened and selected private sector professionals and consulting firms to act on behalf of the Government as certified accreditors. These professionals will complement the efforts of regulatory agencies by reviewing structural drawings, conducting stage inspections, and monitoring compliance with building codes throughout construction phases.

At the event, Sanwo-Olu approved and inducted 111 certified accreditors, comprising consultants and monitoring officers. The Governor emphasized that the primary goal of the initiative is to ensure building safety. He noted that by reducing the risk of building collapses, the State would not only protect lives and property but also enhance security, which is essential for economic growth and prosperity.

He said:

“Today marks a pivotal moment in our journey toward a safer and more prosperous Lagos as we officially launch the Certified Accreditors’ Programme. This initiative underscores the importance of promoting safe and standard practices in the built environment for the socio-economic well-being of our State. It is not merely a regulatory measure; it is a transformative step toward fostering a safer, more compliant, and sustainable Lagos.

“The primary objective of this programme is to ensure the safety of our buildings. By effectively reducing the risk of building collapses, we not only protect lives and property but also instill a sense of security essential for any thriving community. By incorporating private sector expertise into our regulatory framework, we are taking significant strides toward achieving socio-economic benefits that will improve the quality of life for all Lagosians.”

Sanwo-Olu assured stakeholders that the initiative was not designed to disrupt the businesses of investors and private developers. Instead, he emphasized that it would safeguard investments in building construction, ensuring long-term stability and compliance with safety regulations.