Lagos: The Lagos State Materials Testing Laboratory (LSMTL) on Tuesday called for stronger collaboration with key players in the construction industry to prevent building collapses in the state. The General Manager of LSMTL, Mrs. Olayinka Abdul, made the call at a stakeholders' forum on Tuesday in Badagry. She was represented by the Director of Administration, Mr. Adewunmi Abayomi.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the forum had the theme: 'Certified Structural Integrated Programme (CSIP): Forging a New Unbreakable Alliance Against the Preventable Tragedy of Building Collapse in Lagos State'. Abdul stated that the agency was introducing the CSIP as a five-year assessment plan for existing buildings in Lagos, aimed at ensuring all construction materials are certified and fit for purpose.
Abdul emphasized that many cases of building collapse in the state are linked to weak or uncertified materials like blocks, concrete, steel, and untreated soil. She noted that CSIP would act as a strategic blueprint to end these tragedies by enforcing rigorous testing at all construction stages.
She outlined the roles of LSMTL and its sister agencies-the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority and Lagos State Building Control Agency-across three stages: mandatory soil tests before permits are issued, destructive tests during construction, and non-destructive tests post-construction using modern equipment like the Pundit and Profoscope to assess building integrity.
The general manager mentioned that the state government would create a directory of certified artisans and producers to connect them with builders and developers, while offering regular training on best practices. She highlighted the importance of partnership and accountability, urging stakeholders to take ownership of quality assurance.
Mr. Abimbola Adebayo, Head of the Soil and Geotechnics Unit, LSMTL, remarked that the stakeholders' meeting aligns with state government policy to ensure all buildings and infrastructure in Lagos are monitored from start to completion. He stressed that structural tests, known as non-destructive or general stability tests, are essential for determining a building's condition and safety.
Adebayo explained that buildings in use must undergo testing every five years to ensure continued safety, with penalties for non-compliance, including notices, test report demands, and potential building seals.
Alhaji Fabiyi Oyeleke, Chairman of the Association of Block Moulders, Badagry Chapter, expressed satisfaction with the engagement with LSMTL. He assured that association members are ready to comply with agency standards and support its initiatives. However, he appealed for assistance in addressing the issue of quack block makers producing substandard blocks that undercut genuine producers.
Mr. Fashina Yusuf-Aro, Chairman of the Bricklayers Association, Badagry Chapter, urged artisans to consistently use quality materials and reject jobs where property owners insist on substandard materials. He stressed the importance of combining practical skills and theoretical knowledge on site.