In recent news, the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) has resealed four buildings across different areas in Lagos for violating safety and construction regulations. While this may seem like a routine enforcement action, it highlights a critical issue that directly impacts us as young Nigerians—the safety of our communities.
When buildings are constructed without proper permits or fail to follow approved building plans, it puts everyone at risk. Collapsing buildings, unsafe structures, and accidents can lead to loss of life and property, something we must take seriously as young people. Yet, discussions around construction safety and regulations often exclude the voices of youth. This needs to change.
Why Should Young People Care About Construction Safety?
We live, work, and go to school in the very buildings that LASBCA regulates. Ensuring that these structures are safe and comply with legal standards is not just the responsibility of the government—it’s something that affects all of us. Unsafe buildings can cause preventable disasters, and those disasters don’t just impact the owners of the properties; they can affect entire communities.
The resealing of these buildings by LASBCA serves as a reminder of the importance of strict adherence to safety regulations. It’s a call to action for young Nigerians to be more involved in making sure that our cities are developed responsibly. If we want to create a safer, better Lagos, we need to make sure our voices are heard.
How Can You Make a Difference?
- Stay Informed: Understand the role of agencies like LASBCA and how construction regulations work. It’s important to know the risks associated with unsafe building practices and the laws in place to prevent them.
- Report Unsafe Construction: If you see a building going up without proper permits or notice questionable construction practices in your community, you have the power to report it. LASBCA encourages the public to report illegal building activities, and your vigilance can help prevent a potential tragedy.
- Advocate for Youth Involvement in Urban Development: Join conversations around urban planning and development. Youth voices are often missing when it comes to shaping the future of our cities. But as the next generation of leaders, we need to make sure our concerns are addressed when it comes to safety, infrastructure, and responsible urban growth.
- Get Politically Active: Take your engagement a step further by getting involved in local politics or community groups. Advocate for policies that ensure stricter safety measures and promote sustainable development. Your input is valuable in ensuring that Lagos—and Nigeria—grow in ways that are safe and beneficial for all.
The recent actions by LASBCA are a reminder that we must take an active role in ensuring that safety standards are upheld. Don’t wait for a disaster to strike before taking action.
Join us in advocating for safer communities by reporting unsafe construction, staying informed about building regulations, and ensuring that youth voices are part of the conversation on urban development. Your involvement matters.
