Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has launched the Certified Accreditors’ Programme (CAP), a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing building safety and regulatory compliance across the state.
Speaking at the White Stone Event Centre, Ikeja, the governor emphasized that the programme was developed in response to the tragic Ikoyi building collapse of 2021, underscoring its critical role in preventing similar incidents and promoting sustainable urban development.
“Today marks a pivotal moment in our journey toward a safer and more prosperous Lagos State,” Sanwo-Olu declared.
CAP, spearheaded by the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), is a direct outcome of recommendations from the panel that investigated the Ikoyi tragedy. The initiative fosters government-private sector collaboration by integrating accredited professionals into the state’s building monitoring framework.
Sanwo-Olu highlighted CAP’s potential to enhance socio-economic well-being, attract investments, improve urban aesthetics, and establish a robust regulatory system that will boost developers’ confidence.
“By effectively reducing the risk of building collapse, we not only protect lives and property but also foster a sense of security that is vital for any thriving community,” he stated.
The governor urged key stakeholders—property developers, homeowners, architects, and engineers—to uphold the highest standards of integrity and compliance. He also encouraged the public to report substandard constructions and unauthorized developments.
“I charge all accredited firms to carry out their duties with professionalism and integrity. You are now integral players in our mission to make Lagos a model for sustainable urban development in Africa,” he said.
Special Adviser to the Governor on E-GIS and Planning Matters, Dr. Olajide Babatunde, detailed the thorough selection process for CAP, revealing that out of 250 expressions of interest, 150 companies were shortlisted.
“As a matter of fact, we are still going to have super CAP agents who will be checking what we are doing, ensuring accountability and transparency,” Babatunde added.
The programme classifies accreditors into two groups: individual professionals, requiring at least five qualified experts in relevant fields, and corporate firms, consisting of a minimum of two registered construction and built industry companies.
With CAP, Lagos moves a step closer to achieving safer, compliant, and resilient urban development, setting a precedent for other cities in Africa.
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