LASG harps on professionalism in the Built Environment.
The Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu today 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 at the Balmoral Convention Center, 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.
While realizing shelter as of utmost importance, the Governor noted the need to build right using only certified professionals in order to have buildings that are safe, healthy and preserved for future generation.
He called on building regulators to enforce building regulations to the latter so as to prevent illegal, haphazard and poorly constructed buildings that is detrimental to the wellbeing of Lagosians.
The Governor said
“I daresay that engaging only certified professionals, seventy percent (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”
Still stressing the need for Professionalism, the Governor said further “Professional bodies play a huge role in the building process, from designs to supervision, construction and management of the entire process the professionals play a crucial role, hence there should be unity and a sense of purpose, always remember that if one gets it wrong, there would be a domino effect”.
” I also want to urge all Professional bodies to as a matter of urgency register all deserving candidates as this would promote professionalism and end quackery in the built sector.
I urge the leadership of these professional bodies to devise a method to track those who are not their members as well as put in place stringent punitive measures to punish members who are not practicing in line with the code of professional conduct of the associations”.
The Governor further called on owners and developers to ensure that before they embark on their project, they should obtain necessary government documents, certifications, engage professional, carry out proper tests (soil tests) and involve LASBCA in every stage of their buildings from start to finish.
He warned manufacturer of building materials not to reduce the quality of their product and drop their standard because of the economic recession and the financial involvement.
The Governor acknowledged the crucial role of artisans who must be encourage to do the right thing by using the right mix and not try to cut corners in performing their duties.
He noted that government is a major stakeholder whose role is to provide an enabling environment and make policies to promote healthy buildings in the State.
He 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.
The Governor said ” 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”
“But to further serve you better, we crave the support of everyone. When our officers visits 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”.
In his welcome address, the General Manager of the State Building Control Agency, 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 noted that Professionalism is the cornerstone of the success recorded so far in the built environment by the agency he oversees.
He further noted that the engagement of all stakeholders in the built environment is a collective dedication which provided a platform for open dialogue, knowledge sharing and collaboration among all stakeholders.
While acknowledging room for improvement in ensuring safe and secure buildings, Oki said the state government is introducing the public private partnership named the Certified Accreditors Program 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.
Highpoint of the event is the presentation of gift to the Governor in recognition of his support to the building industry.
Olaoye Olusegun
Public Affairs Unit
LASBCA
15/08/2024
