13th August, 2024
By Jerrywright Ukwu
In recent weeks, Nigeria has been hit by a disturbing frequency of building collapses, raising urgent questions about construction standards and regulatory oversight. On Saturday, July 13, a section of a two-storey residential apartment in Abuja collapsed, trapping several individuals under the rubble. Fortunately, four people were rescued, but the incident is a stark reminder of the dangers that continue to plague the construction industry in Nigeria.
The collapse happened less than 24 hours after a devastating incident in Plateau State, where a school building collapse claimed the lives of 22 pupils and injured 132 others.
The next week, operatives from the Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA) rescued about 200 people including students from the Nnamdi Azikiwe University (Unizik) Awka, Anambra State from death, as a 3-storey dilapidated building collapsed in the state capital. Eleven days before that a building collapsed at Unity House, Area 11, Garki, Abuja. There have been almost a dozen incidents since then. One can go on and on about these cases.
The recurring nature of these tragedies is a testament to the fact that the Nigerian government needs to take decisive actions on this issue. To curb the frequent building collapses, there must be a comprehensive strategy involving stricter regulatory enforcement, enhanced construction standards, and the engagement of skilled professionals. The involvement of well-trained architectural graduates and industry experts is paramount in addressing this issue.
The construction industry in Nigeria has long suffered from a lack of stringent oversight and enforcement of building codes. This has led to the proliferation of substandard structures that are prone to collapse under minimal stress. To rectify this, the government must prioritize the engagement of experts in architecture and construction management. Nigeria boasts a wealth of talented young professionals who are well-equipped to contribute to safer and more reliable building practices.
Recent recognition of Nigerian students Angela Odiete and Oludolapo Olanrewaju in New Zealand’s Architecture Engineering and Construction Management Industry sector exemplifies the potential within the country. Both were selected among the top 30 students in the sector, with their names also featured among the top 10 students in construction management. That is the calibre of talent that exists in Nigeria, talent that could be instrumental in revolutionizing the construction industry.
Engaging young and talented minds like Odiete and Olanrewaju can provide innovative solutions and fresh perspectives to the challenges faced by the construction industry. These individuals, trained in international standards and practices, bring a wealth of knowledge that can be adapted to the Nigerian context. The government should create pathways for such professionals to take on leadership roles within regulatory bodies, construction firms, and educational institutions to ensure their expertise is utilized effectively.
One practical step could be the establishment of a national task force on building safety, comprising young professionals, experienced engineers, architects, and construction managers. This task force would be responsible for reviewing and updating building codes, conducting regular inspections of construction sites, and providing ongoing training for builders and contractors. Additionally, collaborations with international bodies could facilitate knowledge transfer and the adoption of best practices.
Another critical measure is the enforcement of existing regulations. Despite having comprehensive building codes, Nigeria often falls short in implementation and oversight. Corruption, lack of accountability, and inadequate resources are barriers to effective regulation. The government must strengthen its regulatory agencies, ensuring they are adequately funded and staffed with competent professionals. Transparent processes for approving building plans and conducting inspections must be established to eliminate any loopholes that could be exploited.
Also, there should be severe penalties for non-compliance with building standards. Contractors and developers who cut corners or use substandard materials should face legal consequences, including fines, license revocations, and imprisonment. This will serve as a deterrent to others and ensure they adhere to safety standards.
Public awareness and education are also crucial in addressing the problem of building collapses. Many Nigerians are unaware of the importance of engaging qualified professionals for construction projects. The government, in partnership with professional bodies and civil society organizations, should launch campaigns to educate the public on the risks of using unqualified builders and the benefits of adhering to proper building practices.
Educational institutions have a role to play in this regard as well. By incorporating practical training and real-world applications into their curricula, universities, and technical colleges can better prepare graduates for the challenges of the construction industry. Programs that promote continuous professional development and certification for builders and contractors can also help maintain high standards within the industry.
Incorporating modern technology and innovation into construction practices is another way to enhance building safety. Advanced materials, construction techniques, and monitoring systems can reduce the risk of structural failures. The government should encourage the adoption of such technologies through incentives, subsidies, and partnerships with private sector players.
For instance, Building Information Modelling (BIM) can improve the planning, design, and management of construction projects, ensuring that potential issues are identified and addressed before they become critical. The use of drones and other monitoring technologies can also facilitate real-time inspections and assessments of construction sites, helping to maintain high standards throughout the building process.
The recent building collapse in Nigeria is a clarion call for urgent and comprehensive action. President Bola Tinubu’s administration must prioritize this issue and take proactive steps to prevent further loss of life and property. The time for action is now, and it is the responsibility of all stakeholders to work together towards creating a safer built environment for all Nigerians.
Jerrywright Ukwu, a journalist writes from Abuja. He can be reached at [email protected].
