Sanwo-Olu frowns at non-compliance with building code in Nigeria

Lagos State Governor Mr. Babatunde Sanwo-Olu on Thursday lamented the wanton disregard for building code in Nigeria, saying if professionals in the building and construction sector comply with the code, the problem of building collapse taking its toll on the nation will be reduced.

Governor Sanwo-Olu stated this at the second edition of the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) with the theme, “Professionalism Across Board In The Built Environment” held in Lagos.

He said, ”One major challenge we face as a government is citizens’ strict adherence to building codes which often translates to complete disregard for building regulations by home owners and developers. While we realize 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 generations.

”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 are detrimental to the wellbeing of Lagosians. That is why we are strongly advocating 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 engage in any building construction in the state.”

The governor pointed out that since professional bodies play a huge role in the building process, from designs to supervision, construction and management of the entire process, there should be unity and a sense of purpose in the sense that if one gets it wrong, there would be a domino effect.

”I also want to urge all Professional bodies to as a matter of urgency register all deserving candidates as this would promote professionalism and end quackery in the built sector.

”I urge the leadership of these professional bodies to devise a method to track those who are not their members as well as put in place stringent punitive measures to punish members who are not practicing in line with the code of professional conduct of the associations,” he said.

Earlier, the General Manager of the Lagos State Building Control Agency , Architect Gbolahan Oki said, the engagement is a testament to collective dedication aimed at providing 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.

He added that, ”The Lagos State Building Control Agency has made significant strides in ensuring adherence to building standards and codes, resulting in a notable decline in building collapses. These positive outcomes are testament to our efforts.

”Nevertheless, we acknowledge that there is always room for improvement. During this engagement, we will introduce new measures by the state government designed to enhance the safety and resilience of our buildings for future generations.

”We aim to engage not only industry professionals but also our community members who are involved in property development, specifically our mothers who specialise in trading and constantly engage the services of developers in handling their building projects.”