The Lagos State Government is mapping out ways to make the building industry and landed property in the State more viable and compliant with the demands of a Smart City and 21st-Century Economy.
Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu disclosed this while speaking at the 5th Lafarge Africa Concrete Ideas forum with the theme, “Building Up Safely: Government-Industry Collaboration,” held at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by his Deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, emphasised that his administration is determined to sustainably address the issue of building collapse, safeguard lives of the people as well as prevent economic and financial loss.
He noted that building collapse arises from a lack of adherence to standards and quality in building and construction, maintaining that his administration will confront the menace until a greater, smarter and more sustainable model is achieved in the sector.
Speaking further, Governor Sanwo-Olu stated that his government has been more intentional and vocal in sensitising prospective builders on the importance of seeking the input of professionals in Engineering, Building, Planning and Architecture before embarking on building structures.
He said, “As a proactive government, we are ever open to ideas and initiatives that are targeted at improving the living standards of Lagos and the quality of buildings being put up in our State for habitation.”
While stressing the need for government-construction industry collaboration to successfully curb the menace of building collapse to achieve safe and fit habitation, Sanwo-Olu called on those in the business of manufacturing construction materials to comply with standards and good quality.
Earlier, the Country Chief Executive Officer, Lafarge Africa Plc, Mr. Khaled El Dokani, commended Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration for the infrastructural development that the State has witnessed since its inception in 2019, which has continued to foster economic development and stimulate prosperity in Lagos.
He acknowledged that the State Government has played an active role in promoting ideas towards improving the built and construction sector in Nigeria, saying, “Your continuous review of extant laws on urban and regional planning and development is an attestation to this fact.”
“Being the Special Guest of Honour of this edition of concrete ideas reflects your commitment to working with the private sector to further boost the growth of the building sector. We, therefore, seek your support in transforming these ideas into concrete solutions that will be beneficial to the nation,” the CEO stated.