The consequences are tragic. Buildings keep collapsing, lives are lost, businesses crumble, and families are left without homes. Developers cut corners, ignoring safety regulations. Many homeowners assume disaster won’t happen to them, while authorities fail to hold anyone accountable.

Under Nigeria’s 2003 Insurance Act (Cap 117), any building used for residential, commercial, educational, or medical purposes must have insurance coverage. This includes protection against collapse, fire, floods, earthquakes, vandalism, theft, and third-party damage. The goal is simple: when a building fails, victims should receive financial compensation, and property owners should have the means to rebuild.

But in reality, most people don’t comply. A survey by Housingtvafrica found that only two out of every ten property owners bother to insure their buildings. The reasons? Some believe “God will protect them,” while others either don’t know the law exists or simply don’t trust insurance companies. Many assume that even if they pay for coverage, they will never receive a payout when disaster strikes.

And yet, compliance is incredibly affordable. The compulsory insurance costs just ₦5,000 per plot and per floor. A two-story building on one plot costs around ₦15,000, while the same structure on two plots is ₦20,000. Developers constructing buildings over two floors are required to secure coverage or face a fine of ₦250,000—or even three years in prison.

Still, enforcement is weak.

The Numbers Don’t Lie

In the past 50 years, Nigeria has recorded at least 629 building collapses, resulting in over 1,578 deaths. Lagos accounts for more than half of these cases, with 326 recorded incidents. Other high-risk states include Anambra, Oyo, Kano, Delta, and the FCT. Meanwhile, states like Gombe, Bayelsa, Taraba, and Katsina have seen the fewest cases.

A recent tragedy underscores the crisis. At Oriwu Estate near Lekki-Epe Expressway, a three-story building under construction collapsed, killing four people and injuring several others. None of the victims had insurance coverage. The owner? Left to deal with the financial losses alone.

The pattern is all too familiar. Injured workers are abandoned. Families of the deceased receive no compensation. Neighbors suffer damage to their properties with no recourse for repairs. And the developers responsible? Many simply move on to the next project, escaping any real consequences.

The Real Cost of Non-Compliance

For property owners, the lack of insurance leads to financial ruin. If a building collapses, they are forced to shoulder reconstruction costs alone. When damages extend to nearby buildings, neighbors must pay for repairs out of pocket. If the owner faces lawsuits, legal fees can run into millions of naira. Without insurance, these losses can be impossible to recover from.

Despite these risks, compliance remains dismal—even in Lagos, where the law is integrated into the Urban and Regional Planning and Development Act. Property owners are required to submit proof of insurance to the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), but enforcement has been weak.

Ogun State has also mandated compulsory insurance through its 2022 Building Production Management Authority Regulation. Developers must obtain an All-Risk Insurance Policy for any structure over two floors. This policy covers losses from construction failures, worker injuries, and third-party damage. Yet, like in Lagos, enforcement remains largely ineffective.

Why Nigerians Still Ignore the Law

Experts point to several factors fueling non-compliance:

• Weak Enforcement: State agencies lack the manpower or commitment to enforce the law effectively.

• Lack of Awareness: Many developers and property owners don’t even know insurance is mandatory.

• Mistrust in Insurance Companies: Many believe insurers will take their money but refuse to pay when disaster strikes.

• Cost-Cutting by Developers: Some developers deliberately avoid insurance to save money, even if it puts workers and tenants at risk.

Lola Olawore, an insurance expert at Staco Insurance Plc, believes the only solution is stronger enforcement. “Most Nigerians don’t take insurance seriously unless they are forced to. Look at Third-Party Vehicle Insurance—compliance only increased when the authorities cracked down on violators.”

The National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) has acknowledged the issue. CEO Olusegun Omosehin recently revealed plans to increase Nigeria’s insurance penetration to 5% in the coming years. But for now, most Nigerians still view insurance as unnecessary.

Samson Opaluwah, Chairman of the Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON), warns that unless the Contractor All-Risk (CAR) Insurance policy is strictly enforced, the cycle of disaster will continue. “This policy exists to protect buildings and workers on-site. But because enforcement is so weak, most contractors ignore it entirely.”

What Needs to Change?

The solution is simple: strict enforcement, public education, and severe penalties for violators.

The government must:

1. Mandate proof of insurance before construction permits are issued.

2. Conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance.

3. Apply heavy fines and penalties on developers who fail to comply.

4. Educate property owners on the importance of insurance coverage.

Until these measures are taken seriously, more buildings will collapse. More lives will be lost. More investments will be destroyed.

For now, the cycle continues. Developers ignore the law. Authorities fail to act. And when disaster strikes, it’s the victims who pay the ultimate price. Unless something changes, the next tragedy is only a matter of time.

The post Why Nigeria Keeps Losing Lives and Investments to Building Collapses appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Lagos Chapter Chairman, Mr. Thomas Adeoye, made this call during the 2025 Builders’ Week/Walk held at Ejigbo Local Council Development Area, Lagos.

The event, themed “Builders’ Role in Effective Building Control and Regulatory Compliance for Sustainable Construction,” attracted several key stakeholders in the industry.

Ejigbo LCDA Chairman, Monsurudeen Oloyede Bello, represented by Mr. Bankole Haroun, attended alongside NIOB Lagos officials, including Akingbade Israel and Mr. Sunday Wusu.

Ensuring Professionalism to Prevent Structural Failures
Adeoye emphasized that enforcing building laws strictly will eliminate quackery and substandard construction practices that threaten safety and sustainability.

He noted that the yearly event reaffirms NIOB’s commitment to professionalism, sustainability, and safety within the Nigerian construction industry.

Adeoye stressed that engaging professional builders remains crucial to tackling regulatory non-compliance, substandard construction, and frequent building collapses.

“A structure’s strength depends entirely on the expertise of professionals handling its construction from beginning to completion.”

He explained that builders must comply with the National Building Code and state-specific regulations to prevent structural failures.

Unfortunately, many structures collapse because unqualified individuals handle critical construction projects without adhering to safety measures.

NIOB’s Commitment to Safety and Compliance
Adeoye reaffirmed NIOB’s dedication to ethical practices, regulatory compliance, and competency in partnership with key government agencies.

The Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), and other regulators must enforce strict compliance.

He emphasized the mandatory engagement of professional builders in all construction activities, ensuring quality control in building projects.

Furthermore, he called for increased public awareness, professional development, and certification to enhance capacity within the construction industry.

“Hiring unqualified builders is a dangerous risk. Certified professionals remain an essential necessity, not a mere luxury.”

Adeoye urged homeowners to verify builders’ qualifications, ensuring structural safety, compliance, and long-term durability.

Builders’ Week and Promoting Professional Standards
NIOB Secretary, Mr. Gbaja-Biamila Mubarak, noted that Builders’ Week honors victims of building collapses and promotes construction professionalism.

He emphasized that certified builders guarantee quality, ensuring successful, well-structured buildings resistant to avoidable structural failures.

Similarly, LCDA representative, Mr. Bankole Haroun, reaffirmed the council’s commitment to infrastructure development and regulatory compliance.

The post NIOB Urges Strict Building Control Laws to Prevent Building Collapses appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Lagos State Police Command spokesperson Benjamin Hundeyin confirmed the incident, stating that it occurred around 4:00 p.m. Wednesday.

Emergency responders rescued fourteen individuals from the rubble and transported them to Lagos Island General Hospital for treatment.

Authorities have mobilized security personnel to the scene, ensuring order while rescue operations continue to locate remaining victims.​

The post 14 Pulled from Rubble, Rescue Efforts Ongoing as Building Collapses in Lekki appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The structure suddenly caved in, leaving several female students trapped under the rubble and causing panic within the school community.

Emergency responders rushed the injured students to Specialist Hospital, Potiskum, where they are currently receiving medical treatment.

Yobe State Commissioner of Basic and Secondary Education, Professor Abba Idris Adam, visited the collapse site alongside Dr. Dauda Atiyaye.

Dr. Atiyaye, the Executive Secretary of Yobe State Science and Technical Education Board, also assessed the hospital’s treatment of the injured.

Preliminary reports suggest that one female student tragically lost her life after the roof collapsed onto her under the veranda.

While the exact cause of the collapse remains unclear, authorities have launched investigations to determine the reason behind the tragic incident.

The school, located about 100 kilometers from Damaturu, the state capital, remains closed as officials evaluate the building’s safety.

The post School Building Collapses in Damaturu, Injures Female Students appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Speaking during a thanksgiving service in Abuja to mark his reappointment by President Bola Tinubu, Duna expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to continue leading the institute. His reappointment, coming after a successful first tenure that began in 2020, signals the government’s trust in his leadership and vision for Nigeria’s construction sector.

Outlining his agenda for the next four years, Duna assured Nigerians that under his watch, the institute would ramp up research and technological advancements aimed at strengthening infrastructure durability. He emphasized that building collapses, which have become an all-too-frequent tragedy in the country, could be significantly reduced through strict adherence to quality standards and innovative research. His plan includes setting up state-of-the-art laboratories to test and enhance construction materials, ensuring that only the best materials are used in building projects.

The NBRRI chief also vowed to improve staff welfare, recognizing that a motivated workforce is crucial in driving innovation and excellence. Beyond tackling substandard construction practices, he is determined to address the financial bottlenecks that hinder housing development. His strategy involves advocating for increased funding for housing projects while also pushing for research-driven solutions that could make homeownership more affordable for low-income Nigerians. He believes that by prioritizing implementable research, the nation’s construction industry will experience a transformation that benefits both builders and homeowners.

Duna’s leadership has earned him commendation from key government figures, including the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Geoffrey Nnaji, who praised him for his remarkable achievements in his first term. According to Nnaji, the reappointment was a reflection of the president’s commitment to putting the right people in positions that drive national progress. He described Duna as a man of competence and trustworthiness whose work has earned him respect across multiple sectors.

Adding to the accolades, NBRRI’s Director of Consultancy and Extension Services, Daniel Makava, highlighted some of the groundbreaking advancements made under Duna’s leadership. These include the introduction of modern testing laboratories for construction materials such as steel and bitumen, as well as innovative projects like the conversion of plastic waste into road construction materials. Such initiatives, Makava noted, have not only promoted sustainability in Nigeria’s construction sector but have also positioned NBRRI as a research powerhouse.

Beyond research, the institute has also strengthened partnerships with academic institutions, providing students with opportunities for internships and joint research programs. This move is aimed at bridging the knowledge gap in the sector, ensuring that the next generation of engineers and builders are well-equipped to uphold high construction standards.

During the thanksgiving service, Rev. Ogidi Dickson, the host pastor, delivered a sermon urging the congregation to remain steadfast in their faith, even in difficult times. His words resonated with many, serving as a reminder that resilience and unwavering dedication are key in overcoming challenges.

The event was attended by notable dignitaries, including Senator Anthony Yaro and Representative Obed Shehu, among others. Their presence underscored the significance of Duna’s reappointment and the expectations that come with it. With a renewed mandate, Duna now faces the task of turning promises into tangible results, ensuring that Nigeria moves toward a future where building collapses become a thing of the past and affordable housing is no longer a luxury but a reality for all.

The post NBRRI Pledges to End Collapses and Deliver Affordable Housing appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

This call was made during a national conference organized by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment in Abuja. Themed “Adherence to Standard Practices: Bedrock of Sustainable Development in the Building/Construction Sector,” the conference gathered key players from across the industry to address critical safety and regulatory challenges.

A communique signed by SON Director General, Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, emphasized the urgent need to reinstate SON’s presence at Nigeria’s ports. Thirteen years ago, a directive was issued to remove the organization from ports to ease business operations, but stakeholders argue that this decision has compromised safety. Without direct oversight at the ports, SON cannot physically inspect and verify construction materials before issuing Nigeria Conformity Assessment Programme (SONCAP) certificates, increasing the risk of substandard materials flooding the market and endangering public safety.

According to SON, the recurring incidents of collapsed buildings stem from non-compliance with established construction standards, the use of inferior materials, and the engagement of unqualified personnel. While Nigeria has adopted several foreign building codes, experts stress that these regulations must be adapted to local environmental and economic conditions to be truly effective. Given the country’s current economic challenges and inflation-driven spikes in construction material prices, adhering to quality standards has become increasingly difficult for developers.

The conference participants strongly advocated for legal enforcement to ensure only certified professionals handle structural designs and construction projects. They recommended that SON enforce stricter certification requirements for all building materials used in Nigeria. Additionally, they called for laws that impose severe penalties on developers, contractors, and clients who fail to comply with safety regulations. A significant proposal from the conference was the mandatory routine integrity testing of buildings, particularly when modifications are made that alter their original structural intent.

Dr. Okeke noted that Nigeria’s rapid urbanization and population growth have placed unprecedented pressure on the construction sector, making quality control more critical than ever. While the demand for affordable housing continues to rise, it is imperative to balance accessibility with safety and sustainability. Despite numerous public awareness campaigns led by SON, many industry stakeholders still lack sufficient knowledge of the standards required for building safe and durable structures.

Another major recommendation from the conference was ensuring that professionals in the building sector operate strictly within their areas of expertise. Contractors, suppliers, and artisans were urged to commit to using only approved materials and strictly adhering to best practices. The participants also emphasized the need for educational institutions to integrate construction safety standards into their curricula to bridge the knowledge gap among future professionals. SON was further encouraged to maintain its active role in international standardization bodies like the African Organisation for Standardisation to align Nigeria’s construction regulations with global best practices.

With the frequency of building collapses posing an ever-growing risk to lives and property, stakeholders insist that immediate government action is necessary. The passage of the National Building Code into law is seen as a critical step toward enhancing construction safety and restoring public confidence in the industry. As discussions continue, the focus remains on the National Assembly to implement decisive policies that will prevent further tragedies and create a safer built environment for all Nigerians.

The post Building Collapse: Stakeholders Demand Tougher Laws to End Construction Failures appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of two construction workers from the rubble of a collapsed three-storey building along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway in Awka.

The structure, located near the CBN building and opposite Five Star Restaurant, collapsed late Wednesday while still at the roofing stage. Eyewitnesses reported that the building caved in suddenly, prompting bystanders and passersby to initiate rescue efforts before emergency responders arrived.

State police spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, stated that the rescued workers were rushed to the hospital and are responding to treatment. No fatalities have been reported. The site engineer and the building owner have been invited for questioning, while security operatives have cordoned off the area.

The Awka Capital Territory Development Authority has launched an investigation to determine the cause of the collapse.

The post Two Rescued as Three-Storey Building Collapses in Anambra appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

In response to the growing crisis of building collapses in Nigeria, leading organizations and professionals across the construction industry have joined forces to implement robust measures for safety.

At a national conference held in Abuja, the Minister of State for Industry, Trade, and Investment, John Eno, emphasized the urgent need for heightened safety standards, stating that adherence to such standards is the “bedrock of sustainable development” in Nigeria’s building sector.

The conference, themed “Adherence to Standard Practices: Bedrock of Sustainable Development in the Building/Construction Sector,” was organized by the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) and brought together key stakeholders, including the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), Housing Development Advocacy Network (HDAN), the Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON), and other professionals from across the industry.

Highlighting the scale of the problem, Eno noted that Lagos State has recorded over 351 building collapses in the past 50 years, making up more than half of the nation’s 635 incidents. He stressed the government’s commitment to ensuring public safety, stating, “The security of lives and property is a priority, and addressing the ongoing issue of building collapses is paramount.”

COREN President Prof. Sadiq Zubair Abubakar underscored the necessity of enforcing codes and standards that are specifically tailored to Nigeria’s environmental and structural needs. “While foreign standards like Eurocodes are sometimes adopted, Nigeria must have its own codes to address local conditions and prevent future incidents,” Abubakar said.

Adding to the conversation, SON Director-General Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke pointed out the need for greater industry-wide awareness and education on safety standards. “Many builders, suppliers, and professionals are still unaware of crucial standards for safe construction,” he remarked, calling for comprehensive training initiatives to align the workforce with international safety practices. Okeke also highlighted the challenge of meeting Nigeria’s rapidly growing demand for affordable housing while ensuring quality and safety are not compromised.

With a shared resolve to enhance regulatory frameworks, improve public awareness, and adopt innovative building materials, SON, COREN, HDAN, CORBON, and other allied bodies reaffirmed their commitment to tackling the building collapse crisis. This unified approach marks a significant step toward creating safer, more resilient cities across Nigeria.

The post SON, COREN, HDAN, CORBON and other professionals Unite to Combat Building Collapse Crisis in Nigeria appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Speaking at the National Conference on the Building and Construction Sector, held in Abuja, Enoh underscored the urgent need for industry-wide collaboration to reinforce standards and prevent further loss of life and property.

The conference, themed “Adherence to Standard Practices: Bedrock of Sustainable Development in the Building/Construction Sector,” gathered notable figures from the industry, including engineers, builders, town planners, architects, and regulators, to address the causes of construction failures and to chart a path toward a safer, more resilient building sector.

In his address, Enoh emphasized that aligning construction practices with approved standards is crucial to national safety and aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to economic growth. “Putting a stop to the unending incidents of building and construction collapses requires courage and unity among all stakeholders. Adhering strictly to agreed standards will significantly contribute to the administration’s priority of safeguarding lives and property,” he stated.

The minister expressed concern over a growing culture of disregard for standards in the construction sector, where compromised materials and practices are becoming alarmingly common. He lamented that “compromising on standards has almost become the norm,” and added that such actions “pose a threat to the robustness and sustainability of Nigeria’s most critical infrastructure sector.”

Enoh praised SON for hosting the conference and highlighted the need for a proactive regulatory environment, stating, “My hope is that the discussions here will resonate across Nigeria, impacting not only the building and construction sector but also instilling a broader culture of accountability.”

He emphasized that focusing on pre-construction standards and a strict enforcement framework is essential to fostering resilience and promoting a safe and sustainable built environment.

Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwunonso Okeke, the Director General of SON, echoed the minister’s call for unified action, emphasizing that SON is adopting a proactive approach to ensure up-to-date standards that respond to industry advancements. “We are committed to reducing substandard products by updating standards and aligning them with global best practices,” Okeke stated.

He further emphasized that SON’s mission is to build a resilient construction sector that supports economic growth and social development. “Collaboration is crucial in bridging knowledge gaps, promoting adherence to standards, and creating a culture of quality and accountability across the sector,” he added.

The President of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), Prof. A.Z. Abubakar who was represented by Engr. Olaolu Ogunduyile, Vice President of COREN, urged SON to engage stakeholders actively in their regulatory processes. He stressed that cooperation among regulatory bodies, professional associations, and trade unions is essential to uphold the codes and standards that underpin sustainable development in the built environment. “As professionals, we must adhere to our codes of conduct and practice, ensuring they form the foundation of sustainable development within the industry,” he stated.

Highlighting the role of professional accountability, Bldr. Samson Ameh Opaluwah, Chairman of the Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON), reaffirmed CORBON’s dedication to strict standards, saying, “Collaboration among stakeholders is key to curbing building collapses in Nigeria. We will continue to adhere to standard practices to ensure a better building sector.”

Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, President of the Nigerian Society of Engineers, called for a united front against quackery in the industry. “All stakeholders must join hands to combat substandard practices and materials in construction,” she urged. “Addressing these issues is essential to prevent the devastation caused by building collapses.”

The Minister’s remarks, calling for courage and commitment, struck a chord with attendees. He assured the audience of the federal government’s support, adding that the Renewed Hope Administration under President Tinubu is fully committed to enhancing the sector’s standards.

Professor Samson Duna, Director General and CEO of the Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBRRI), called for an end to the incessant building collapses across the country, urging SON and stakeholders to ensure that all processes and procedures in building and construction are strictly followed. “Every professional in the sector must know their role and collaborate with others rather than interfering in the work of another professional body,” he added.

The event enjoyed the support of the Housing Development Advocacy Network (HDAN) and prominent members of the foremost housing advocacy group in Africa were present. The conference served as a unifying platform for stakeholders to discuss solutions, share insights, and strengthen partnerships, to build a safer and more sustainable future for Nigeria’s construction sector.

The post Minister Urges SON, Industry Stakeholders to Join Forces in Curbing Building Collapses Across Nigeria appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Speaking in Gombe on Monday at the opening of the 13th National Council on Lands, Housing, and Urban Development meeting, the Ministry’s Director of Planning, Research, and Statistics, Mohammed Bala, outlined the government’s determination to tackle this persistent issue. The meeting, themed “Housing the Future: Affordable Housing for Economic Growth, Climate Resilience, and Urban Development,” brought together experts and policymakers to address housing sector challenges.

According to Bala, the Federal Government is committed to minimizing building collapses, which continue to cause significant loss of life and property. He stated, “Building collapse is not only a structural issue but also a grave risk to human lives. It’s crucial to prioritize the safety of residents by addressing this issue thoroughly.”

Bala explained that the National Council, the highest policy-making body for lands and housing, had gathered input from over 60 organizations on housing and urban development challenges, leading to the identification of eight critical areas for policy reform, including the enforcement of building standards.

Highlighting recent incidents in Jos, Lagos, and Abuja, Bala attributed many collapses to non-compliance with building regulations and the use of substandard materials. “The problem of building collapse is very serious,” he noted. “President Bola Tinubu has strongly addressed this, and the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, has set up a dedicated committee to establish strict building codes.”

Bala assured that the council meeting would include sessions dedicated to addressing building collapses, with experts presenting solutions to prevent future tragedies. He emphasized that policies arising from these discussions would be implemented nationwide to enhance building safety standards.

In addition, Bala mentioned the recent establishment of a housing tribunal, which will expedite cases of code violations. He stressed that offenders would face tough sanctions, and that the government would no longer tolerate non-compliance with building laws.

Gombe State Commissioner for Works, Housing, and Transportation, Usman, also addressed the gathering, noting the role of affordable housing in driving economic growth, mitigating climate change, and fostering sustainable urban development. He highlighted the state’s 2024 budget allocation for housing infrastructure, including partnerships with the North-East Development Commission and Family Home Funds Limited to meet local housing needs.

This commitment aligns with Gombe’s Development Plan 2020-2030, which emphasizes resilient infrastructure and sustainable development. Usman affirmed the collective goal to provide safe, affordable housing for all Nigerians, reinforcing the government’s dedication to preventing building collapses.

The Ministry’s firm stance on enforcing building standards underscores a renewed urgency to protect lives and property and to promote a safer, more sustainable housing sector across Nigeria.

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