Building Collapse: “Qualified engineers must be patronized to prevent tragedies” – NICE

The Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (NICE), Ilorin Chapter has successfully held its “Walk Against Building and Infrastructure Collapse” to raise awareness about the growing menace of substandard construction practices in Nigeria. 

The event, which started at the KWAGIS/Town Planning Office Secretariat, brought together engineers, architects, quantity surveyors, and other professionals for an 8-kilometre walk through key locations in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, on Saturday.

SolaceBase reports that the participants carried banners and placards with messages advocating stricter adherence to construction standards and the eradication of quackery in the industry. 

Speaking at the event, Engr. Mashood Sayi, Chairman of the NICE Ilorin Chapter, highlighted the primary causes of building collapses, including the use of poor-quality materials and inadequate construction methodologies.

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He called on professionals to ensure adherence to specifications and proper construction processes to reduce the menace drastically.

“As professional engineers, we are tasked with the responsibility of ensuring the use of correct materials and methodologies in every project. Together, we can make a significant difference,” he said. 

Also, Engr. Dr. Ahmed Mustapha, FNSE, FNICE, expressed concern over the challenges facing civil engineers in Nigeria, particularly the intrusion of unqualified individuals into the profession.

He emphasized the need to uphold professional standards and reject quackery.

“We must say no to unqualified individuals taking up engineering roles. This is a wake-up call for all of us to protect our profession and raise the standards of engineering practice in Nigeria,” he stated. 

Similarly, Engr. K. A. Adeoti, FNSE, FNICE, stressed the importance of engaging qualified engineers in all construction projects to prevent building collapses.

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“Quackery thrives when people fail to patronize registered engineers. This awareness walk is a call to action for the public to prioritize professionalism and ensure the safety of our communities,” he said. 

Representing the Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria (APWEN), Engr. (Mrs.) Amudalat Abidoye applauded the efforts of female engineers in advancing the profession.

She encouraged all engineers to give back to the system by promoting best practices and eliminating quackery.

“Civil engineering is the mother of all engineering disciplines, and we must protect its integrity by ensuring only qualified professionals are engaged,” she noted. 

The event concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to work together to uphold safety standards, eradicate quackery, and create a safer built environment in Nigeria.