LASBCA demands stricter standards to curb building collapse

By Olatonmiwa Osho

The Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) has called for stricter professional standards and greater collaboration among built-environment stakeholders to prevent building collapse and improve construction safety across the state.

The agency’s General Manager, Bldr. Florence Gbaye, made the call at the Building Collapse Prevention Guild (BCPG), Amuwo Odofin Cell conference in Lagos.

Gbaye warned professionals against the use of substandard materials and urged strict compliance with approved building regulations, stressing that preventing building collapse requires professional integrity and collective responsibility.

She also condemned the practice of professionals taking on multiple projects and delegating critical responsibilities to unqualified persons, popularly known as quacks.

The LASBCA boss urged developers, professionals and other industry stakeholders to engage regulatory authorities early and embrace voluntary compliance from building plan approval through construction to completion.

She said early engagement would help prevent violations, ensure conformity with approved plans and promote safer construction practices.

Gbaye also highlighted LASBCA’s Certified Accreditors’ Programme (CAP), through which the agency collaborates with more than 150 private practitioners to improve regulatory efficiency and professional participation.

She reaffirmed LASBCA’s commitment to working with professional bodies, regulatory institutions and other stakeholders to promote quality construction and a safer, more resilient Lagos.