LASG HARPS ON PROFESSIONALISM IN BUILT ENVIRONMENT 

The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has stressed the need for Professionalism in the built environment.

The Governor disclosed this at the second edition of the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) Building Sector Stakeholders engagement with the theme: “Professionalism Across Board in the Built Environment”, held on Thursday at the Balmoral Convention Centre, Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja.

The Governor stated that Professionalism in the built environment is a critical undertaking that demands all stakeholders attention and commitment, noting that lagos urban areas are experiencing rapid population growth which places tremendous pressure on the existing infrastructural facilities.

He decried the complete disregard to building regulations by home owners and developers, which he said is a major challenge faced by regulators and statutory bodies.

Emphasising that Shelter is of utmost importance, the Governor  noted the need to build right using only certified professionals to have buildings that are safe, healthy and preserved for future generation.

Sanwo-Olu, therefore, called on building regulators to enforce building regulations to the latter so as to prevent illegal, haphazard and poorly constructed buildings that are detrimental to the wellbeing of Lagosians. 

 The Governor said, “I daresay that engaging only certified professionals, 70% of the challenges of building collapse across the state will be addressed. Therefore, it is now mandatory that all relevant professionals in the built environment are fully engage in any building construction in the State”.

He called on owners and developers to ensure that before they embark on their project, they should obtain necessary government documents, certifications, engage professionals, carry out proper soil tests and involve LASBCA in every stage of their buildings from start to finish. 

While warning manufacturers of building materials not to reduce the quality of their product and drop their standard because of the economic recession and the financial involvement, Sanwo-Olu advised the public to cooperate with all the government agencies in the building Sector who are to ensure minimum standard are maintained in building construction and renovation so that existing and new buildings are safe, secure and habitable for present and future generation.

His words, “As a Government, we cannot do it alone without your support. My administration is very passionate about ending issues of Building Collapse in Lagos State and this has informed the introduction of the Certified Accreditors Programme whereby Professionals in the built sector will be involved in both the approval processes and inspection of building projects”.”To further serve you better, we crave the support of everyone. When our officers visit your site, especially developers, ensure that you cooperate by producing all required documents. Do not see government officials as your enemy, we are rather partners in progress”, he added.

 Speaking in a similar vein, the General Manager of the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), Arc. Gbolahan Owodunni Oki called on developers, community leaders, and all stakeholders to put a stop on the attack of officials of the agency, noting that disobedience to this directives will have dare consequences. He stated that Professionalism is the cornerstone of the success recorded so far in the built environment by the Agency.

While acknowledging the need for improvement in ensuring safe and secure buildings, Oki said the state government is introducing the public private partnership named “Certified Accreditors Programme” to further enhance the safety and resilience of buildings in the state. Other speakers at the event also acknowledge the role of Professionalism in the built environment with a common call to stakeholders to adhere strictly to the dictates of Professionals in ensuring that buildings in the state are safe, secure and habitable for current and future generations.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of a gift to the Governor in recognition of his support to the building industry.