In a bid to address the rising incidents of building collapse in Lagos State, the Lagos State Government, in collaboration with the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), has inaugurated a Certified Committee Program (CAP). The program aims to enforce strict compliance with building regulations across the state, ensuring that contractors and developers adhere to the prescribed standards and obtain the necessary permits and certifications.
The launch event, held in Lagos, saw key stakeholders from the government, regulatory agencies, and the construction industry come together to underscore the importance of this initiative in safeguarding lives and properties. Representing the governor at the event, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Enterprise Geographic Information Systems (EGIS), Dr. Olajide Abiodun Babatunde, highlighted the administration’s commitment to creating a safe and sustainable building environment in Lagos.
Dr. Babatunde revealed that the governor has made adequate provisions to support the enforcement of building control regulations, signaling a zero-tolerance stance against non-compliance. He emphasized that the Certified Committee Program will serve as a critical tool in monitoring construction activities, ensuring that developers obtain all necessary documentation from LASBCA before commencing any building project.
The General Manager of LASBCA, Architect Gbolahan Oki, commended the governor for his proactive approach in addressing the challenges facing the construction sector. He noted that the idea of the Certified Committee Program originated from the governor’s vision to prioritize safety and resilience in building practices across the state.
“This initiative is a game-changer for Lagos State. It reflects the government’s resolve to protect residents by ensuring that only certified and compliant structures are erected. The committee will work tirelessly to monitor, evaluate, and enforce adherence to building regulations,” Oki stated.
Adding to this, Dr. (Mrs.) Olayinka, a prominent advocate for urban resilience, spoke about the resilience and dedication expected from the newly inaugurated committee. She stressed the importance of their role in curbing the menace of substandard construction practices, which have been a major cause of building collapses in Lagos.
The Certified Committee Program (CAP) is designed to operate with precision and efficiency. Members of the committee are tasked with conducting regular site inspections, verifying compliance with building codes, and collaborating with other agencies to ensure the seamless enforcement of LASBCA’s mandates.
This initiative is a significant step towards addressing the recurring challenges of building collapses, which have claimed lives and caused immense economic losses in Lagos State. With CAP in place, the government aims to restore public confidence in the construction sector while fostering a culture of accountability among developers and contractors.
The Lagos State Government has urged all stakeholders in the construction industry to cooperate fully with the committee and embrace the new measures. This collaborative effort is expected to transform Lagos into a model state for safe and sustainable urban development