By Abubakar Yunusa
The Chairman of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) Abuja, Engr. Ahmed A.S.Y. Kutigi, has reaffirmed the body’s commitment to addressing the ongoing issue of collapsed infrastructure in Abuja, highlighting that the problem extends beyond just buildings.
In a interview, Kutigi emphasized the widespread nature of infrastructure failures, stating, “We are not sleeping on the issue of collapsed infrastructure generally. It is not only buildings that are collapsing.”
He pointed to a variety of failing engineering structures, including roads, dams, bridges, and culverts, and expressed concern over recent power grid failures.
Kutigi also announced plans for ongoing educational initiatives focused on safety, health, and environmental issues, which he believes are critical for improving infrastructure integrity.
“We have identified a lot of topics to be discussed and also a lot of training,” he noted, adding that recent lectures have even touched on food safety and security.
He elaborated on the complexities of building design and construction, explaining that the process involves multiple stages of oversight, from conceptualization to structural analysis.
Kutigi emphasized the need for current licensing among professionals involved in engineering projects and highlighted the importance of adhering to established protocols to prevent failures.
“We are only operating on individual buildings, not as a cohesive force,” he said, pointing out the lack of harmonized documentation that clearly defines the roles of engineers, architects, and builders in the construction process.
He urged for improved collaboration among regulatory bodies, noting that the President of COREN is actively working with other professional organizations to ensure a unified approach to infrastructure development.
The call for more stringent oversight comes as Nigeria continues to grapple with infrastructure challenges that have significant implications for public safety and economic stability.
