Building collapse: Nigeria records over 1,600 deaths, 650 incidents in 52 years — FG

Nigeria has experienced a tragic toll from building collapses, with over 1,600 deaths and 650 incidents recorded since 1974, stated Dr. Muttaqha Darma, the Minister of Housing and Urban Development. He described these statistics not merely as numbers but as "funerals," emphasizing the devastating impact on families.

Darma pointed out that most collapsed buildings had designated designers, builders, and approving officers. However, he noted a pervasive issue where "in most cases, nobody was licensed and nobody was punished." This lack of accountability and regulatory oversight has contributed to the persistent problem.

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Since 1974, Nigeria has recorded more than 650 building collapses and over 1,600 deaths. Those are not figures; they are funerals.

In response to these challenges, the Federal Government is advancing a National Housing and Built Environment Regulation Policy. This policy aims to enhance sector oversight by enforcing developer and agent licensing, elevating construction standards, and ensuring professional registration. The proposed reforms also include measures like escrow protection for homebuyers, improved land administration, and the establishment of a national housing data observatory. A National Housing Industry Regulatory Commission is planned to enforce compliance nationwide, with the goal of restoring public confidence in the housing sector through effective regulation and strict adherence to building standards.

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Almost every one of those buildings had a designer, a builder and an approving officer. In most cases, nobody was licensed and nobody was punished