By Ayomide Otitoju
The Lagos State Government has introduced the Certified Accreditor Program (CAP), a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening building control regulations to prevent structural failures and collapses.
Dr. Babatunde Olajide Abiodun, Special Adviser to the Governor on eGIS and Urban Development, described CAP as a “direct, deliberate, and intentional response” to the recurrent incidents of building collapse in the state.
“Lagos will continue to lead, and others will follow,” Dr. Abiodun stated, emphasizing that while the state possesses the expertise to enforce building standards, there is a lack of sufficient personnel to cover its vast urban landscape. CAP, a public-private partnership, seeks to bridge this gap by involving certified professionals in monitoring construction activities and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
Key Responsibilities of Certified Accreditors
Once accredited, certified accreditors will be responsible for:
Screening building plans and ensuring compliance with approved development regulations.
Conducting state inspections to monitor construction activities.
Preventing unauthorized or substandard developments.
Enforcing adherence to Lagos State’s building codes.
The initiative will involve professionals such as architects, structural engineers, civil engineers, mechanical and electrical engineers, builders, town planners, and surveyors.
Implementation and Structure
So far, 250 expressions of interest have been received, with 150 companies shortlisted. CAP will feature two categories of participation:
Professional Groups – A consortium of at least five experts from various fields, such as architecture and engineering.
Corporate Firms – A partnership of at least two registered companies in the construction and built environment sector.
In addition, the program will include “Super CAP Agents” tasked with overseeing implementation and maintaining accountability.
Digital Transformation in Urban Planning
Dr. Abiodun also announced that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has provided 1,112 computer systems with internet connectivity to facilitate an electronic physical planning process. This system will allow Lagos residents to apply for building approvals and complete state certifications online, reducing bureaucratic delays and enhancing efficiency.
“This is another first by Mr. Governor,” Dr. Abiodun remarked. “Very soon, from the comfort of your home, you will be able to process building approvals and complete all necessary certifications with minimal human interaction.”
The Certified Accreditor Program aligns with the administration’s T.H.E.M.E.S Plus agenda, reinforcing Lagos’ commitment to urban development and safety.
