Patrick Kelechi, Lagos
DAILY COURIER Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has launched the Certified Accreditors Programme (CAP), a new initiative aimed at addressing inadequacies in building construction and preventing structural failures in the state. The initiative was introduced during a stakeholder engagement meeting involving key players from the public and private sectors.
Sanwo-Olu stated that CAP is an outcome of recommendations from a panel set up in 2021 to investigate and curb incidents of building collapses in Lagos. The programme underscores the importance of collaboration between government agencies and private-sector professionals in ensuring rigorous construction supervision and regulatory compliance.
As part of the initiative, 111 certified accreditors, including consultants and monitoring officers, have been inducted to work alongside regulatory bodies. Their responsibilities will include screening structural designs, conducting on-site inspections, and enforcing adherence to established building codes throughout the construction process.
Highlighting the significance of the initiative, Sanwo-Olu emphasized that the primary objective is to enhance building safety across Lagos. "Our goal is to minimize the risks of building collapses and protect lives and property. A secure environment is essential for a thriving city like Lagos, and this initiative is a crucial step in achieving that," he stated.
The governor urged stakeholders in the construction industry, including property developers, structural engineers, homeowners, and architects, to collaborate with the government in upholding the highest standards of integrity and compliance. He noted that strict supervision and adherence to regulations would help mitigate the dangers associated with poorly planned developments.
Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring the structural integrity of buildings in Lagos, adding that CAP would play a vital role in reshaping the state's construction landscape. "Together, we can create a safer Lagos by ensuring that all buildings meet safety standards, reducing the risks of structural failures," he added.
With the launch of the Certified Accreditors Programme, the Lagos State Government is taking a proactive approach to enforcing building regulations, protecting lives, and promoting sustainable urban development.
