Manny Ita –
The Lagos State Government has set March 31 as the deadline for owners of buildings that are over 20 years old to conduct structural integrity tests on their properties, as part of renewed efforts to prevent building collapses and strengthen safety compliance across the state.
Officials said the directive follows a number of incidents in which potential building failures were averted after emergency inspections revealed structural weaknesses in aging structures.
Authorities explained that the integrity tests are intended to determine the safety condition of older buildings and ensure that necessary reinforcement or rehabilitation works are carried out where required.
A government official involved in the enforcement process said the measure is part of a broader safety initiative designed to safeguard lives and property in the densely populated commercial hub.
“The state government has made it mandatory for owners of buildings that are more than 20 years old to conduct structural integrity tests and submit the reports to the appropriate regulatory authorities before the March 31 deadline,” the official said.
The tests are expected to be carried out by certified structural engineers who will assess the strength, stability and safety condition of the buildings.
Officials said the results of the assessments must be submitted to the Lagos State Building Control Agency, the regulatory body responsible for monitoring building safety and enforcing construction standards in the state.
Authorities warned that property owners who fail to comply with the directive risk facing sanctions, including possible closure or demolition of unsafe structures.
Another official said the initiative is part of ongoing efforts to improve urban safety and strengthen regulatory oversight in the state’s rapidly expanding real estate sector.
“We want building owners to take responsibility for the safety of their structures. Early detection of structural defects can prevent tragedies and ensure that necessary repairs are undertaken before buildings become dangerous,” the official said.
Experts in the construction sector have also urged property owners to comply with the directive, noting that regular structural assessments are essential in cities with aging infrastructure and intense urban development pressures.
The government said enforcement teams will intensify inspections across the state as the deadline approaches to ensure that building owners comply with the new safety requirement.
