The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has attributed the rising cases of structural failures in Nigeria’s construction industry to faulty designs and the use of substandard materials.
This was disclosed on Tuesday by NSE President, Mrs. Margaret Oguntala, during a public lecture and induction ceremony for new members, held as part of the 2025 Engineering Week in Damaturu, Yobe State.
Represented by the NSE Vice President, Usman Tijjani, Oguntala stressed the urgent need for stakeholders in the construction sector to adhere strictly to professional and standard engineering practices to avoid building collapses, project delays, and budget overruns.
“Stakeholders must adhere to standard and professional practices to avoid delays, budget overrun, and collapse of building structures,” she stated.
Oguntala described the theme of the event, “Construction of Flyovers and Other Related Engineering Infrastructures”, as timely, especially amid the country’s growing infrastructural needs and safety concerns.
She lauded the Yobe State Government’s commitment to infrastructure, particularly the ongoing construction of Damaturu’s first flyover. However, she cautioned that projects of such magnitude require comprehensive planning, including detailed soil analysis, sound structural design, quality materials, and consistent supervision.
“Flyovers are capital-intensive and require adequate supervision and budgetary provisions to ensure their durability and safety,” Oguntala noted, warning that underfunded or poorly executed projects risk becoming long-term liabilities.
She urged engineers, contractors, and relevant agencies to uphold professional ethics and pay meticulous attention to critical engineering elements such as soil bearing capacity, concrete strength, design load, and environmental impact assessments.
Earlier, Mr. Aliyu Sabo, Chairman of the NSE Damaturu Branch, said the 2025 Engineering Week was designed to promote excellence in engineering practice, encourage public awareness on quality project delivery, and reinforce professional standards.
Sabo highlighted the schedule of the week-long celebration, which includes visits to engineering firms, project sites, orphanages, and hospitals. The event will culminate in a dinner and award night.
“The public lecture and induction of the new members are the first activities lined up for the event, with further engagements planned across various sectors,” he added.
Sabo also paid tribute to the late Mr. Jibrin Umar Kortoni, former Director-General of the Ministry of Lands and Survey and a past chairman of the NSE Damaturu Branch, acknowledging his significant contributions to the growth of the local engineering body.
