The Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) says it is taking proactive steps to prevent building demolitions and collapses in Lagos through early engagement with developers and property investors.
The agency explained that it now works with developers at different stages of construction to identify potential violations and recommend necessary corrections before projects are completed.
LASBCA General Manager, Florence Gbaye, said the agency’s responsibility goes beyond inspections and enforcement. According to her, its priority is to protect lives, secure investments and ensure buildings provide safe environments for occupants.
She made this known at the 2026 Annual Lecture and Awards Day organised by the Property and Environment Writers Association of Nigeria (PEWAN), themed Re-Imagining Housing: Sustainability, Facility Management and Innovative Building Materials.
The agency had previously faced criticism over demolitions carried out after some buildings had reached advanced stages of construction or were already occupied.
However, Gbaye said the agency was changing its approach by engaging developers earlier and promoting compliance throughout the building process.
LASBCA Calls for Shared Responsibility in Building Safety
Gbaye stressed that proper planning, quality materials, regular maintenance and professional involvement are essential to safer buildings in Lagos.
She also called on property owners, developers, built-environment professionals, the media and residents to support government efforts to improve construction standards.
According to her, responsible media reporting can help the public understand that building regulations are designed to protect lives, families and investments rather than frustrate property development.
She added that Lagos should measure development not only by the number of buildings constructed but also by their safety, quality and value to communities.
PEWAN Warns Against Compromising Building Standards
Earlier, PEWAN Chairman, Okwy Iroegbu-Chikezie, emphasised the importance of quality control and strict compliance with building regulations.
She warned that innovation and affordability must not come at the expense of safety.
Iroegbu-Chikezie also noted that solving Nigeria’s housing challenge requires more than constructing additional homes. It demands better planning, sustainable building methods, innovative financing and policies that make decent housing accessible to low- and middle-income earners.
She reaffirmed the association’s commitment to educating the public, investigating challenges in the property sector and holding policymakers and developers accountable.
The association also pledged to promote transparency, discourage building approval violations and encourage investment in sustainable housing solutions.
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