Building Collapse Crisis in Nigeria: 47 Incidents in 2024

Building collapse poses a major safety challenge in Nigeria, especially in Lagos State, according to recent data from the Building Collapse Prevention Guild (BCPG). A report by Jide & Co Onasali in 2022 identified building collapse as a significant barrier to sustainable development, with losses amounting to $3.2 trillion over the past 20 years.

In 2024, there were 47 recorded building collapses across 14 states, with Lagos leading at 13 incidents. Other states included Abuja (6), Anambra (5), and Kano and Rivers (4 each).

The report indicates that Lagos accounts for 55.15% of incidents, while Abuja and Anambra follow with 4.37% and 4.06%, respectively. The first recorded building collapse in Nigeria occurred in October 1971 in Oyo State, resulting in 27 fatalities.

Despite promises for reforms, incidents continue to rise, with recent collapses in Lagos and Anambra adding to the ongoing crisis.