Capacity Building: Experts Suggest Measures to Checkmate Building Collapse

By Praise Chinecherem

In a bid to tackle the growing issue of building collapse in Nigeria, the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (NICE), in partnership with the National Directorate of Employment (NDE), organized a workshop for artisans in Nnewi, Anambra State.

Engr. High Chief Alex Ifeagwazi, Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers, underscored the workshop’s purpose: to educate artisans on best practices and enhance their craftsmanship.

“We concentrated on concrete casters, bricklayers, fitters, carpenters, diggers, and other artisans to inform them of their critical roles in preventing building and infrastructure collapse,” he stated.

The workshop highlighted the necessity of a properly balanced concrete mixture and emphasized the importance of having a civil engineer present on site during construction activities.

A bricklayer at the event shared his experience of being pressured to use more sand than the recommended amount when mixing concrete. Ifeagwazi encouraged the artisans to prioritize quality and insist on proper standards: “Ending infrastructure collapse is a collective responsibility. If all stakeholders, particularly artisans, carry out their duties effectively, we can significantly reduce building failures.”

Mr. Paul Orabuenyi, Chairman of Nnewi Artisans, expressed his appreciation to the organizers for providing essential insights and assured that he and his members would apply the professional knowledge gained.

The event also welcomed State NDE Coordinator Mrs. Chika Ufele, highlighting the collaborative commitment to improving the safety and quality of construction in the region.