Speaking on Sunday, BCPG Ikeja Cell Coordinator, Mr. Gbolahan Oyelakin, stressed the value of technology in assessing building performance and pointed up the need for data-driven insights to guide preventive actions.

Oyelakin noted that technology can serve as a real-time monitor for building materials, alerting authorities to any signs of impending failure long before visible deterioration sets in. 

He explained that life cycle assessments allow experts to anticipate the lifespan of construction materials, an invaluable tool for spotting compromised materials early. Accurately tracking a building’s life expectancy, he argued, officials can prevent collapses and intervene before conditions worsen.

Commending the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), Oyelakin referenced the recent initiative to demolish 15 structurally unsafe buildings in Iponri. He appreciated the agency’s move to actively engage with residents, providing clear communication about the demolition process and safety protocols. 

Such actions, he stated, reiterate the importance of consistent government oversight and community involvement in promoting a safe urban environment.

In addition to technological tools, Oyelakin spoke on the role of solid data management. According to him, the patterns revealed by data analytics can be essential for understanding how financial constraints and human choices, particularly during economic hardships, affect construction standards. 

This data, he noted, could help officials predict behaviours that lead to cost-cutting measures in building projects, a factor that often contributes to structural weaknesses.

Oyelakin also urged the government to enforce strict compliance with insurance policies within the construction sector. He noted that many builders maintain policies only on paper, neglecting to meet the required conditions. 

Effective insurance monitoring, he argued, would reinforce accountability and reduce the incidence of collapses.

The issue of recurring building collapses in Lagos has generated serious concern, with professionals repeatedly calling for heightened safety measures. The Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria reports that Lagos has seen nearly 90 building collapses over the past 12 years, resulting in over 350 fatalities. 

Just two weeks ago, a two-storey building collapsed in the Orile Iganmu area, once again stressing the urgency of addressing these structural failings.

In response to these tragedies, the BCPG is calling for a comprehensive approach combining technology, data, and strict policy enforcement to safeguard lives and properties across the state, ultimately avoiding building collapse.

These incidents highlight critical safety concerns within the construction industry and necessitate a reevaluation of project management practices from inception to completion.

As the CEO and Project Manager of Abacus Lead Services Limited, a leading construction and project management firm, I assert that strategic project management, supported by technological tools, is essential for addressing these persistent challenges and ensuring the safety and sustainability of both residential and commercial buildings in Nigeria.

The Role of Project Management in Preventing Building Collapse  

Effective project management is fundamental to the success of any construction project. It goes beyond merely meeting deadlines and budgets; it ensures that every facet of the building process planning, design, execution, and inspection is carried out with precision, safety, and compliance.

Comprehensive Planning and Risk Mitigation Every successful project begins with a robust plan. Utilizing project management tools such as Microsoft Project or Trello, teams can conduct detailed feasibility studies, structural assessments, and site evaluations before construction begins.

These tools help identify potential risks and challenges early on, allowing for proactive rather than reactive solutions.

By anticipating issues, we significantly reduce the likelihood of safety breaches or structural failures.

Adherence to Industry Standards and Regulations Project management plays a crucial role in ensuring compliance with local and international building codes.

This involves the use of regulatory compliance software like ComplyAdvantage, which helps track adherence to standards, ensuring that all materials used and practices followed meet the highest quality and safety benchmarks.

Coordinating efforts among stakeholders—contractors, engineers, and architects—enhances alignment with these standards.

Quality Assurance and Monitoring Ongoing monitoring and quality control are vital components of effective project management.

Advanced technologies such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Drones can be employed to oversee the integrity of design and construction elements.

These tools enable teams to visualize potential issues and address structural weaknesses before they become costly or hazardous.

Cost and Resource Efficiency While cost-cutting is often cited as a reason for substandard construction, effective project management ensures efficient resource allocation without compromising quality. Utilizing tools like Asana or Smartsheet allows project managers to monitor budgets and resource distribution closely, maximizing value for clients while maintaining safety and durability.

Collaboration and Expertise Successful construction projects are the result of effective collaboration among various professionals, including architects, engineers, surveyors, and contractors.

Project management platforms like Basecamp or Slack facilitate communication and accountability among all stakeholders, ensuring that each party is aligned with the project’s safety, functionality, and design goals.

Building A Safer Future with Accountability and Expertise 

The increasing incidents of building collapses in Lagos serve as a poignant reminder of the need for rigorous oversight and a commitment to professional project management across the industry. Each failure underscores the necessity for tighter controls and a culture of accountability.

As a project manager, my team and I recognize the immense responsibility we hold within the construction sector.

We are committed to prioritizing safety, quality, and sustainability in every project we undertake. Our clients can trust that we will leverage the latest technologies and best practices in our pursuit of excellence.

Leading the Charge for Change 

The future of construction in Nigeria hinges on a collective effort to enforce standards and embrace transparency throughout the building process. While the losses from recent collapses are irreplaceable, we can learn from these events by ensuring that future projects are executed with the utmost care and precision.

As leaders in construction and project management, we can prevent further tragedies by implementing the right systems and technologies.

Together, we can create a future where Nigerian buildings stand as a testament to our shared progress and resilience.

*Eyitayo Ogunfusika is the CEO & Project Manager Abacus Lead Services Limited