The Lagos State Material Testing Laboratory (LSTML) has identified the circumvention of established material testing protocols as a significant contributor to the increasing number of building collapses in the state.
This revelation was made by the General Manager of LSTML, Olayinka Abdul, who expressed concern over the alarming rise in sharp practices by some residents and developers.
During a press briefing, Abdul emphasized the importance of maintaining rigorous standards and procedures in materials testing, especially as Lagos continues to experience rapid development. “Our agency is entrusted with ensuring that the materials used in these projects meet the highest standards of quality and safety. This unique responsibility cannot and must not be compromised as it concerns the safety of lives and property,” she stated.
Abdul highlighted several concerning practices, including the intimidation and pressuring of LSTML personnel to overlook critical tests or falsify results. She also pointed out instances where construction material samples had been tampered with before testing, undermining the agency’s efforts to ensure the safety and suitability of these materials.
Given Lagos’ unique topography, characterized by riverine areas, soil salinity, waterlogging, and erosion, Abdul stressed the necessity of rigorous materials testing to identify those best suited for the city’s challenging environmental conditions.
In related news, LagosHoms has presented exit certificates to the first set of mortgagors who completed their payments under the mortgage scheme after 10 years. The LagosHoms mortgage scheme allows individuals to own a home on a rent-to-own basis, with an initial deposit and the balance spread over a decade.
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During the certificate presentation ceremony, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu commended the mortgagors for their commitment to completing their payments without defaulting. He praised LagosHoms for its instrumental role in delivering affordable housing solutions, with over 10,000 housing units provided to low and middle-income families in the last decade.
Sanwo-Olu also highlighted the government’s efforts in initiating and completing numerous housing projects across the state, including in Iponri, Surulere, Igando, Lekki, and Ikorodu. This initiative has helped reduce the housing deficit and provided more affordable housing options for Lagosians.
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In a gesture of appreciation, Sanwo-Olu announced the renaming of the Ilupeju Housing Estate after the father of the Deputy Governor, the late Muftau Hamzat. The Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, expressed gratitude for the honor, noting that mortgage schemes are vital in spreading prosperity and enabling homeownership.
The General Manager of Lagos State Mortgage Homes, Bayowa Foresythe, also expressed appreciation for the government’s support, stating that 20,000 residents have benefited from the mortgage scheme, with 20 housing estates opened in the last five years. “LagosHoms is committed to providing affordable homes for Lagosians and putting smiles on the faces of the people,” he added.