LSMTL engages Artisans to curb building collapses in Lagos

In a bid to curb building collapses and promote structural integrity, the Lagos State Materials Testing Laboratory (LSMTL) has intensified its engagement with construction artisans, including bricklayers and block moulders, within the Ojo and Badagry axis.

The agency held a stakeholders’ forum on Tuesday, February 25, aimed at educating artisans on adherence to statutory building code regulations and best practices in materials testing.

Speaking at the forum in Ojo, the General Manager of LSMTL, Engr. Olayinka Abdul, represented by the Divisional Director for Ojo and Badagry, Engr. (Mrs.) Lola Olowu, underscored the crucial role of safety compliance in preventing structural failures.

She emphasized that proper materials testing is essential to ensuring durable and safe structures, urging artisans to adhere strictly to regulatory standards, use certified materials, and seek expert guidance when necessary.

“The theme of this event, ‘Fostering Collaboration in Averting Building Disasters Across Lagos Communities,’ highlighted the devastating consequences of building collapses—not only in terms of loss of lives and property but also the long-term economic and psychological effects on affected communities,” she stated.

Abdul also highlighted recent cases of building collapses, particularly in rapidly urbanizing areas where safety measures are often neglected.

She called on all stakeholders to comply with existing building codes and safety regulations to prevent future tragedies.

Reaffirming the Lagos State Government’s commitment to safety, she noted that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration prioritised regular training and stakeholder engagement to keep artisans updated on emerging trends and best practices in construction.

“As part of this initiative, bricklayers and block moulders are being trained on ‘The Role of Building Strategies in Ensuring Product Quality and Safety’ and ‘Compliance with Existing Building Codes and Regulations.’ They are also gaining access to technical support services designed to enhance small-scale artisan businesses,” she added.

She encouraged stakeholders to actively contribute to ensuring safer buildings across Lagos, stressing that collective action is key to achieving meaningful change.

“With the cooperation of all involved parties, we can significantly improve building safety in our state. Together, we will ensure that Lagos remains a thriving metropolis where the well-being of residents is a top priority,” she concluded.

The forum featured expert-led training sessions facilitated by Engr. Ramon Ope, Director of Enforcement at LSMTL, and Engr. Abimbola Adebayo, Director of the Soil & Geotechnics Unit.

In his presentation titled “Compliance with Building Codes and Regulations and Access to Technical Support for Small-Scale Artisan Businesses,” Ope encouraged artisans to work collectively as associations rather than seeking individual gains.

He emphasised that collaboration fostered unity and strengthened professional development within the industry.

Adebayo, who trained artisans on “The Role of Building Testing in Ensuring Product Quality and Safety,” highlighted the importance of strong partnerships between manufacturers, end users, and material testing laboratories.

He stressed that rigorous testing is vital in maintaining quality standards and ensuring structural durability.

“Additionally, a robust enforcement program is necessary to monitor manufacturers and sellers of construction materials. This will not only help them achieve optimal value and profitability but also guarantee the delivery of high-quality products,” he stated.

Addressing concerns within the construction sector, Mr. Fabiyi Oyeleke, President of the Block Moulders Association for the Ojo and Badagry axis, acknowledged the state government’s investment in artisan capacity development.

However, he lamented the increasing preference for foreign artisans due to cheaper labour costs, urging the government to take decisive action to protect local professionals.

“Beyond training, the government must lead by example in promoting local artisans and ensuring that they are given fair opportunities in construction projects,” he said.

Similarly, Mr. Adeniyi Olalekan, Chairman of the Lagos State Bricklayers Association, Ojo/Badagry Branch, asserted that certified bricklayers are not responsible for building collapses, as they uphold due diligence and professional standards.

“The rising cost of building materials has forced many Nigerians to compromise on quality and opt for cheaper alternatives, which, in the long run, pose significant risks,” he warned.