Building Collapse Now a National Emergency – Civil Engineers Call for Urgent Action

By Otobong Gabriel,  Abuja 

Building collapse in Nigeria has reached crisis levels and must be treated as a national emergency, the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (NICE) has warned.

Speaking during a “Walk Against Building Infrastructure Collapse,” the Chairman of NICE, Abuja Chapter, Mrs. Shola Ayanronke Adeleke, MNSE, said recurring structural failures during and after construction continue to claim lives and destroy property across the country.

She blamed the trend on poor foundation work without proper soil testing, the use of substandard materials, and the involvement of unqualified contractors.

She noted that many projects lack approved structural drawings, professional supervision, and adequate quality control.

“Building collapse is not fate; it is negligence,” she said, urging strict compliance with building codes, compulsory soil tests, and supervision by licensed engineers.

Also speaking, the Deputy National Chairman of NICE, Engr. Prof. Sunny Emeka Ali, FNSE, stressed the need for professionalism, regulatory enforcement, and adherence to engineering standards to safeguard lives. National Vice Chairman, Engr. Obeka Onuoha, FNSE, called for stronger collaboration between government and professionals to curb unsafe construction practices.

Adding to the voice, an Elder statesman Engr. Olumoh Sharafadeen, FNSE emphasized the need for collective responsibility in promoting safe infrastructure development.

The walk drew participation from other notable members and supporters including Engr. Abubakar Amale, MNSE, from Bauchi State; past NICE Abuja Chapter Chairman, Engr. Alan Machu, MNSE, Engr. Adeleke Stephen Adedapo, MNSE; Engr. Victor Olatunji Junaid, MNSE; Engr. Cyril Chibuzo Okeh, MNSE; and Pharm. Dr. Henry Okolo (KSM), CEO of Hooluc Integrated Services Nigeria Ltd, a key supporter of the institution.

The engineers maintained that enforcing standards, testing materials, and engaging licensed professionals remain the only sustainable solutions to ending building collapse in Nigeria.