The Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors has said that incidents of structural failure in buildings are usually linked to a range of issues, rather than a single cause. The institute pointed to shortcomings in planning, construction processes, and professional involvement as major contributors.
Speaking in Lagos, the NIQS President, Aminu Bashir, made this known during a seminar and the swearing-in of Ololade Sokoya as the ninth Chairperson of the Women’s Association of Quantity Surveyors in Nigeria. He explained that faults can emerge at different phases of a building project, making it difficult to assign blame to just one factor.
According to him, a project may begin with a sound and well-prepared design, yet still fail due to poor execution. He noted that some contractors or project handlers ignore specifications or compromise on standards in a bid to cut costs, which can weaken the structure and eventually lead to collapse.
Bashir also stressed that inadequate or unqualified design work can be a major risk factor. When individuals without proper engineering or technical background take on design responsibilities, the chances of structural defects increase. He added that in some cases, construction begins without any formal or approved design, further exposing buildings to failure.
He highlighted that misleading or unprofessional guidance can also contribute to the problem. Poor advice at any stage of the project can result in wrong decisions that affect the safety and durability of the building. For this reason, he maintained that structural collapse is often the result of multiple overlapping issues.
In addition, he pointed to lapses in regulatory oversight. Bashir explained that monitoring authorities are expected to carry out inspections at different stages of construction and ensure compliance before granting approval to proceed. When such supervision is weak or inconsistent, serious flaws may go undetected.
He emphasised that solving the problem requires collaboration among all parties involved in the construction value chain. From initial planning and cost evaluation to procurement, building, and supervision, each stage must be handled with diligence. Any failure along the line, he warned, could compromise the entire structure.
Bashir further disclosed that the institute plans to engage with the administration of Bola Tinubu on infrastructure development. He noted that the institute’s expertise in cost control and project management aligns with the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He explained that involving qualified cost and construction professionals in public projects would enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and ensure better outcomes. Ultimately, he stressed that strengthening professional standards, accountability, and regulatory enforcement is essential to reducing building failures and promoting sustainable development in Nigeria’s construction sector.
