- Say Lagos, Ibadan, 2 others under threat
- Set to launch Seismic design guidelines for buildings
The Nigerian Institution of Structural Engineers, has highlighted the country’s vulnerability to earthquake damage. Despite being considered a low – risk zone, Nigerian buildings are not designed to withstand seismic activity, putting lives at risk.
Speaking on behalf of the Institution, a fellow of the body and former president, Engineer Olushola Sanni, warns, “Earthquakes do not give respect to borders, and distance from the source does not guarantee safety.”
Recent global events have shown that earthquake vibrations can travel hundreds of kilometers, 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,” Sanni cautions. Also, he said Nigeria may not be widely known as a major earthquake zone, but 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.
“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, he 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,” Sanni warned.
To mitigate risks, Sanni advocates for introducing earthquake-resistant design guidelines and encourages Nigerians to prioritize building safety. “Designing buildings for earthquakes is not an admission of fear. It is a sign of responsible engineering and forward thinking,” he said.
Sequel to this, Sanni said that the Institution will on Thursday, April 16 in Lagos, launch guidelines for seismic design of buildings, which will be in line with global 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
