New Nigerian Newspapers Online Edition

THE three tiers of government in Nigeria have been called upon to conduct surveys of the structural stability of existing buildings in the urban centres to check recurring incidence of collapsed buildings. They have also been E3 advised to intensify research projects.

The call was made at University of Lagos (UN1LAG), Akoka, Lagos by the editor of “Construction Research Journal,” Dr. G.I. Idoro at the launching of the magazine who changed them to intensify research on projects.

He also sought the review of existing defective regulations on development, strengthening of the structures for the approval of plans and monitoring of actual construction and to ensure that professionals are fully in control of projects delivery.

“Unless governments decide to hold the bull by the horn by doing these, the menace of collapsed buildings will continue,” 1doro said.

He remarked that if governments and the construction industry are-able to utilize the findings contained in the research studies already conducted in several areas, it will witness positive changes.

He also implored corporate bodies in the private sector to show greater commitment to research, pointing out that several useful research findings and breakthrougns have remained untapped because the construction industry does not show concern. “Studies have been conducted and several local construction materials have been developed

but the industry is not willing to promote them in terms of production and usuage,” 1doro noted, adding that as a result, “we must continue to depend on foreign materials.”

He pointed out that studies have disclosed that Nigeria does not have any local regulations on Health and Safety (H&S) for the construction industry, in spite of the industry’s hazardous nature.

The “Construction Research Journal” editor advised stakeholders in the construction industry to go into research partnership agreement with the academia to develop all spectrum of the industry. “I implore all corporate bodies in the private sector, especially those in the construction industry to show greater commitment to research by providing special allocation for research in their annual budgets.

They could identify research areas that will be Useful to their products, services, operations and tie such allocations to them,” he suggested.

Idoro pledged that the Editorial Board of the biannual “Construction Research Journal” will ensure of the biannual that research studies conducted in the construction industry are well disseminated globally, but, however, solicited financial support from corporate bodies and individuals in both private and public sectors of the economy to execute the publication’s capital needs.

“Construction Research Journal” is the initiative of the Department of Building, University of Lagos (UNILAG) to promote research in recognition of its importance in the growth and development of a nation.