In a strategic effort to address the persistent issue of building failures in Lagos, the Lagos State Government has unveiled a comprehensive certification and training program tailored for construction artisans.
Named the Certified Structural Integrated Programme (CSIP), this initiative was officially introduced by the Lagos State Materials Testing Laboratory (LSMTL) during a collaborative forum held in Ese-Offin and Badagry, bringing together key stakeholders in the construction sector.
The event attracted a diverse group of professionals including block makers, bricklayers, welders, steel fabricators, and concrete mixers, all of whom expressed strong support for the government’s push towards enhancing construction safety standards.
LSMTL’s General Manager, Olayinka Abdul, emphasized the critical role of artisans in construction, highlighting the program as a vital measure to prevent tragedies caused by inferior building materials.
“Artisans are the backbone of every construction project. With your expertise, we can guarantee that every structure is built to last and withstand environmental challenges. It is imperative that we eliminate incidents of collapse, especially in flood-prone areas. This initiative marks the turning point,” Abdul stated.
The CSIP is designed as a five-year evaluation and certification framework that will verify the quality of construction materials. Additionally, it will establish an authenticated registry of qualified block makers, concrete mixers, and steel fabricators, whom developers will be required to engage.
“Our approach goes beyond mere regulation; it is about fostering collaboration and empowering artisans. Together, we aim to set Lagos apart as a benchmark for construction safety and reliability,” Abdul added.
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Experts at the forum elaborated on the technical foundations of the program. Engr. Abimbola Adebayo, Director of the Soil and Geotechnics Unit, underscored the necessity of conducting compulsory soil analyses prior to any building activity. Likewise, Kayode Akinfeleye from the Technical Services Department stressed the importance of safeguarding architectural plans, calling them “an essential component of Lagos’ building regulations.”
Leaders representing artisan groups welcomed the initiative warmly. Alhaji Fabiyi Oyeleke, Chairman of the National Association of Block Moulders of Nigeria, described the frequent building failures as “deeply troubling” and praised the forum as a constructive development. Mr. Fashina Aro, Chairman of the Lagos State Bricklayers Association, pointed out the challenges posed by the state’s marshy landscape and urged strict adherence to soil and material testing before construction commences.
Building collapses have long been a serious concern in Lagos, resulting in significant loss of life and property. Data from the Building Collapse Prevention Guild reveals that Lagos accounts for nearly 55% of all building collapse cases reported nationwide.
Recent incidents, where rescue teams have had to extract survivors from debris, have intensified calls for decisive government action. Officials affirm that the CSIP will work in tandem with regulatory agencies like the Lagos State Building Control Agency, which has been empowered to enforce building codes and ensure compliance.
