Structural engineers decry Nigeria’s ill-preparedness for earthquakes
• ‘Lagos, Ibadan, two others under threat’ The Nigerian Institution of Structural Engineers (NISE) has alerted the citizens to the country’s vulnerability to earthquake damage. Despite being built in an
• ‘Lagos, Ibadan, two others under threat’
The Nigerian Institution of Structural Engineers (NISE) has alerted the citizens to the country’s vulnerability to earthquake damage.
Despite being built in an area considered a low–risk zone, Nigerian buildings are not designed to withstand seismic activity, putting lives at risk, the engineers warned.
Speaking on behalf of the NISE, a fellow of the body and its former President Olushola Sanni said: “Earthquakes do not give respect to borders, and distance from the source does not guarantee safety.”
Recent global events, Sanni said, have shown that earthquake vibrations could travel hundreds of kilometres, causing damage and panic.
Nigeria’s existing buildings are particularly concerning, with many constructed without proper engineering supervision or consideration for earthquake forces.
“The absence of major earthquakes in recent years should not create a false sense of security,” he stated.
The former NISE president averred that though Nigeria may not be widely known as a major earthquake zone, it is not completely isolated from seismic activity.
He said: “Neighbouring Ghana has recorded several earthquakes, particularly around Accra. Geological structures along the West African coast extend across national borders, meaning seismic energy from that region could potentially reach parts of southwestern Nigeria.
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“Cities, such as Lagos, Ibadan, Abeokuta, and Benin City, many of which sit on soft soils, could experience amplified shaking if seismic waves reach them.”
Citing Mexico and Hong Kong, which experienced earthquakes in the past, Sanni warned that the absence of major earthquakes in recent years should not create a false sense of security.
“Many disasters in history occurred in places that previously believed themselves safe,” he warned.
To mitigate risks, the former NISE president called for introducing earthquake-resistant design guidelines and encourages Nigerians to prioritise building safety.
“Designing buildings for earthquakes is not an admission of fear. It is a sign of responsible engineering and forward thinking,” he said.
Following this, Sanni announced that the institute will, on Thursday in Lagos, launch guidelines for seismic design of buildings, which will be in line with global best practices.
The proposed guidelines aim to provide simplified design procedures for engineers and align Nigerian engineering practice with international safety standards.
Key features of safer buildings include balanced structural layouts, strong connections, and proper reinforcement detailing.
As Nigeria takes steps towards earthquake preparedness, the NISE has advised the citizens to ask questions about building safety before occupying a structure.
