In response to the alarming frequency of building collapses in Nigeria, which have led to tragic loss of lives and property, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has called for a more rigorous regulatory framework and increased collaboration among stakeholders. Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, Director General of SON, emphasized the necessity of a holistic approach to prevent future incidents and restore public confidence in the nation’s construction industry.
Speaking during a recent address, Dr. Okeke identified the primary causes of building collapses as poor structural designs, substandard materials, unprofessional practices, and inadequate soil testing. He underscored the importance of strict adherence to established standards and codes to ensure the safety and integrity of construction projects across the country. “The recurrent issues in the building sector stem from a range of factors, including inadequate construction practices, unauthorized modifications, and neglect in maintenance,” Okeke stated.
Since 2004, SON has proactively addressed these challenges by developing a comprehensive suite of 168 Standards and Codes of Practice for the construction industry. These standards cover various aspects of construction, including the Nigerian Industrial Standard (NIS) 117:2004 for steel reinforcement bars, NIS 499:2004 for iron and steel, and NIS 588:2007 for testing hardened concrete, among others.
To enhance regulatory oversight, SON has utilized its powers under the SON Act to implement key initiatives, including the Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP) for locally manufactured products and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria Conformity Assessment Programme (SONCAP) for imported goods. Additionally, the Product Authentication Mark (PAM) allows consumers to verify the authenticity of products before purchase, further safeguarding against substandard materials.
In a bid to standardize and enforce compliance, SON has established a Special Intervention Task Force focused on steel reinforcement bars. This initiative involves engaging with stakeholders and conducting nationwide enforcement in factories and markets, resulting in sanctions against non-compliant dealers in accordance with the SON Act No.14 of 2015.
Dr. Okeke reassured the public of SON’s unwavering commitment to ensuring a safe built environment through continuous collaboration with other regulatory bodies. This includes close cooperation with the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), the Nigeria Building and Road Research Institute (NBRRI), the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS), the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), and relevant ministries and development agencies at both state and federal levels.
By advocating for stricter regulations and fostering a collaborative approach, SON aims to mitigate the risks associated with building collapses and ensure that construction practices in Nigeria meet the highest standards of safety and quality.
