The Federal Government has raised alarm over the growing trend of structural defects and building collapses across Nigeria, attributing the issue to inadequate oversight by professional regulatory bodies in the construction industry.
A senior official from the Ministry of Housing, who spoke on condition of anonymity, disclosed that a special committee has been established to investigate the root causes of building failures and propose strategies to enhance industry standards.
“There’s currently no central regulatory authority strictly monitoring qualifications and practices within the construction sector,” the official noted. “Professional bodies are expected to supervise their members, but many have failed in that responsibility.”
To address the lapses, the committee is considering a number of proposals, including the establishment of a national Building Standards Regulatory Commission. Such a body would be empowered to monitor compliance with construction guidelines, enforce penalties for violations, and vet qualifications of industry practitioners.
The committee may also recommend the training of law enforcement agencies, such as the Nigeria Police and the Civil Defence Corps, to support regulatory enforcement and ensure that unlicensed individuals do not operate in the sector.
“There’s a possibility that enforcement mechanisms will be expanded,” the official added. “The committee may propose new laws that mandate certification, registration, and accountability for all professionals working on building sites.”
The final report, expected in the coming months, will offer a roadmap for comprehensive reforms aimed at reducing the frequency of building collapses and improving construction safety nationwide.
In a related development, the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV) confirmed the absence of direct legal consequences for unlicensed architects or contractors operating in the country.
Ayodele Olamoju, the Assistant National Publicity Secretary of NIESV, admitted that there is currently no specific law punishing “quack” architects. However, in the event of a building collapse, the government has the power to confiscate the affected property.
“If your building collapses, the government can take over the site. That’s the only standing consequence right now,” Olamoju said.
He explained that during the planning stage, developers are required to submit registration credentials to appropriate agencies for verification. Should a building fail, those records are reviewed to determine the professional responsible.
“If it’s established that the collapse was due to negligence, use of substandard materials, or fraudulent practices, then legal action could follow,” he said. “But currently, there’s no clear statutory framework that criminalises unqualified practice.”
Experts and stakeholders are now calling on the government to bridge this legal gap by enacting specific legislation to combat construction malpractice and strengthen the regulatory environment.
The move comes as Nigeria continues to grapple with high-profile cases of building collapses, leading to loss of lives and property, and raising questions about the integrity of the country’s built environment.
