Spatial Analysis of Building Collapse in Nigeria: A Study of the Causes and Problems

Abstract

The study examines the incidences of building collapse in Nigeria. Data for the study were derived from both primary and secondary sources. The method of collection of primary data included field investigation and site inspection. Relevant qualitative and quantitative methods of analysis of data were employed. The study attributes building collapse to structural defect, poor supervision/workmanship, use of substandard materials, faulty structural design or absence of structural design, carelessness, rainstorm or heavy downpour, weak and faulty foundation, excessive loading, illegal conversion/ non compliance with approved building plans/ disregard for building regulations/plans, hasty construction/ faulty construction, ignorant/greedy clients, and dilapidation and absence of drainage. The study also reveals that one hundred and forty (139) are the recorded number of buildings that have collapsed between 1974 and 2012. Over seven hundred and ninety eight (798) lives have been lost during the period.  54.17% of the reported cases of collapsed buildings are residential buildings 15.83% are residential buildings under construction. 10.00% of the buildings are used for commercial purpose. 8.33% of the buildings are educational institutions. 5.00% are used for religious purpose (churches and mosques). Hotels, courts, hospitals and sport buildings account for 2.50%, 1.67%, 1.67% and 0.83% respectively. The locational distribution of the collapsed building shows a high prevalence in Lagos and Abuja. The study concludes by suggesting appropriate possible measures to avert the growing incessant cases of building collapse.

Keywords: Housing, Building Collapse and Structure