Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, officially launched the Certified Accreditors' Programme (CAP) through the Lagos State Building Control Agency in Ikeja on Monday, 10th March 2025. This landmark initiative is set to usher in a new era for the state's built environment, aimed at enhancing the quality and safety of construction practices across Lagos.
Arc. Gbolahan Owodunni Oki, FNIA, the General Manager of LASBCA, in his welcome speech, emphasized that the event marked a significant demonstration of the administration's commitment to the THEMES+ development agenda, which prioritizes all-inclusive governance through public participation. This commitment has culminated in the launch of the Certified Accreditors’ Programme (CAP) by Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu. The initiative's goal is to make Lagos a more livable, sustainable, and resilient city through strict adherence to the CAP, aligning building standards with globally recognized best practices.
Arc. Oki further commended Governor Sanwo-Olu's administration for its numerous policy reforms within the building industry, which have transformed Lagos into a model of excellence. These reforms have strengthened legal building control, ensuring compliance with the state’s building code and regulations. The result has been a significant reduction in building collapses and enhanced property protection through improved monitoring, enforcement, and data management. He concluded by expressing confidence that the launch of this initiative will foster greater efficiency, collaboration, and innovation in building control, ensuring that non-compliance with government regulations will be met with appropriate action.
Engr. Nurudeen Olalekan Shodeinde, Permanent Secretary, Urban Development, emphasized the potential for growth of the Certified Accreditors’ Programme (CAP), noting innovations and initiatives aimed at improving the city’s infrastructure. He highlighted the importance of monitoring existing programs and ensuring that buildings undergo regular structural assessments to prevent collapses.
According to Dr. Olajide Babatunde, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on e-GIS & Urban Development, the government's commitment to public and private participation in building control and approval processes is crucial in improving the ease of doing business. Key indicators of this process include access to land, building permits, management of contracts, and business registration. The administration has made significant strides in ensuring the active participation of various stakeholders in the development sector, contributing to the delivery of the dividends of democracy.
The Certified Accreditors’ Programme (CAP) is a public-private partnership initiated by the Lagos State Government to involve qualified professionals in enforcing building control regulations across the state. The program aims to ensure construction activities comply with safety, structural integrity, and regulatory standards to prevent building failures. Accredited professionals will be responsible for screening drawings, conducting state inspections, ensuring compliance with approved development plans, monitoring construction activities, and enforcing building codes. This initiative has already attracted over 250 expressions of interest, with more than 50 companies showcased. The program involves groups of professionals such as architects, engineers, and builders, as well as registered construction companies, all working together to maintain high standards in the industry.
Dr. Ololade Amusa, in her goodwill message, emphasized the need for unbiased enforcement from the government. She also thanked the LASBCA and staff for their efforts in supporting the real estate sector and urged continued support for growth despite ongoing challenges.
Engr. (Mrs.) Olayinka Abdul, GM of Lagos State Materials Testing Laboratory Agency (LSMTL), thanked her colleague for their support in material testing. She emphasized the importance of consistent testing every five years and assured that the agency has updated protocols with security features for verified results. She also highlighted the agency's commitment to ensuring buildings are tested and certified for a safer environment.
Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, in his speech, emphasized the importance of collaboration between the state government and private sector professionals in the building industry. He introduced the Certified Accreditors Programme (CAP) through the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), describing it as a transformative step aimed at ensuring the safety of buildings and reducing the risk of building collapses. This initiative is designed not just as a regulatory measure, but also as a way to foster sustainable growth by leveraging private sector expertise. By enhancing safety standards, the program aims to improve the quality of life for residents, attract investment, and stimulate economic growth.
The Governor also highlighted the role of safety in fostering a prosperous society. He stressed that ensuring secure and compliant buildings will attract investments, create job opportunities, and contribute to the advancement of urban infrastructure. This will, in turn, enhance the city's appeal, instill pride in the community, and support the development of a vibrant local economy. Sanwo-Olu pointed out that a well-planned city not only attracts tourism but also builds a foundation for future generations, emphasizing the importance of sustainable development.
0 Comments