The Acting Director General of the Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department (FEMD) has called on Nigerians to engage only certified professionals for building projects, especially during the rainy season, as part of efforts to prevent structural failures and protect lives.

This advice follows the collapse of a building under construction in the Abuja Metro area, which trapped three individuals. Two of the victims were rescued almost immediately, while the third was extricated hours later with a broken leg, according to a report from Abuja Metro.

Speaking in the aftermath of the incident, the FEMD Acting Director General stressed the importance of ensuring structural integrity from the foundation stage of any building project.

“This is the rainy season; builders must check the foundations of their structures and quickly correct any anomalies,” he said, warning that neglecting early signs of weakness could have fatal consequences.

The DG further cautioned against the widespread use of substandard and counterfeit building materials, which he identified as a major contributor to building collapses across Nigeria.

“Many of these tragic incidents are avoidable. They happen because some people cut corners by using fake or low-quality materials, and this must stop,” he stated.

He also extended his gratitude to stakeholders, particularly the construction firms and emergency responders, for their swift action during the recent building collapse. “Your timely intervention made all the difference and ensured lives were saved,” he noted.

The FEMD reiterated its commitment to strengthening regulatory oversight and public sensitisation to improve safety in the construction industry.

The incident has once again spotlighted the urgent need for compliance with building regulations, as authorities urge all contractors and property developers to adhere strictly to standards set by professional bodies and regulatory agencies.

The post FCT Development Chief Urges Builders to Engage Professionals Amid Building Collapse Concerns appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Ministry of Environment announced the programme in a public notice dated June 17. The move aims to improve the visual appeal and environmental health of cities such as Awka, Onitsha, Nkpor, Nnewi, and Ekwulobia.

Starting July 1, inspection teams will begin visiting properties. Officials will focus on buildings that have not been painted in more than ten years or are visibly deteriorating. According to Commissioner for Environment Felix Odimegwu, the exercise will help improve public spaces and strengthen the quality of urban life.

The policy is backed by the Anambra State Environmental Management, Protection and Administration Law of 2024. This law gives the state authority to enforce rules on property maintenance in public-facing areas, known locally as anyaora zones.

Property owners and organisations with buildings in these areas must repaint or renovate their premises to avoid penalties. The ministry explained that clean and well-maintained buildings are essential for creating a livable and eco-friendly environment.

The directive has drawn sharp criticism from opposition figures. George Moghalu, the Labour Party’s gubernatorial candidate, condemned the move. He described it as oppressive and disconnected from the current economic reality.

According to Moghalu, the administration is failing in key areas such as infrastructure, healthcare, and job creation. He said it was unfair for the government to demand cosmetic changes while ignoring deeper issues. He also questioned whether the government had provided any form of support to help citizens comply.

Moghalu stressed that urban renewal must be built on consultation and fairness. He called for the immediate suspension of the directive and urged the government to engage with local communities and stakeholders.

Although he supports clean cities and environmental progress, he warned that policies must be people-focused, not punitive. Without financial support or public dialogue, he argued, the programme risks alienating the very citizens it claims to serve.

The post Anambra State Orders Building Repainting to Improve Urban Aesthetics appeared first on Housing TV Africa.