Nigeria, NIA: Over 500 cases of building collapse

The Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) said on Friday that the country has experienced over 500 building collapses since 2010 that have resulted in more than 100 fatalities. NIA President, Arc Adeniyi Mobilaji, expressed concern that the frequent collapses have tarnished Nigeria's reputation globally. The institute emphasized the need for stricter building regulations and better enforcement to address the issue.

This was discussed during the 2024 Architects Symposium held in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, under the theme "Architecture and Building Collapse: Practice, Reality, and Remedy." Mobilaji pointed out that the collapses, especially in Lagos, have become a major embarrassment for the country. He emphasized the importance of architects recognizing their responsibility for ensuring safety and sustainability in construction. Additionally, he stressed that architects play a leading role in construction projects and must supervise all professionals involved.

In a lecture titled "Building Construction Delivery Process in Nigeria: The Role of Government and Professionals in the Building Industry," the Managing Director of Anambra Bureau of Public Procurement, Okey Ezeobi, called for greater collaboration among industry professionals to tackle the problem. He attributed the rise in building collapses to a decline in professional standards and weaknesses in the government's regulatory framework.

Dr. Emmanuel Udomiaye, Chairman of the NIA’s Ebonyi State chapter, urged stakeholders in the construction sector to work together to address the issue. He expressed concern that the integrity of architecture is at risk, not because the profession has lost its relevance in the modern age, but due to the neglect of those who have greatly benefited from it.