By Olasunkanmi Akoni

A building expert, Engr. Rankins Oguara, MNSE, has stressed the need for civil engineers to strategically dominate the construction sector in order to mitigate the alarming trend of building collapse in Nigeria.

The call has become necessary following incessant building collapse, with attendant loss of lives and property across the country.

Oguara, a seasoned construction expert and Coordinator of the Young Engineers Forum, Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) Lagos Branch, made this call at the ND1/HND1 orientation program of the Department of Civil Engineering, Yaba College of Technology, Yaba, Lagos.

In his address, he cited alarming statistics, revealing that over 270 buildings have collapsed in Nigeria within the last decade, resulting in significant loss of lives and property. He emphasized the need for civil engineers to take the lead in ensuring that buildings are constructed with integrity and safety.

As the Assistant Technical Secretary of the NSE Lagos Branch and Publicity Secretary of the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers, NICE, Lagos Chapter, Oguara is well-positioned to drive the call to action.

He therefore, urged students and young engineers to familiarize themselves with the NSE and NICE, leveraging the platforms for professional development, mentorship, exposure, and networking.

Oguara, also advised the students to plan and prepare for conversion programs or Master’s degrees to facilitate their registration with the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria, COREN, when due.

With his multifaceted experience and expertise, he is a strong advocate for excellence in the construction industry.

His call to action is a timely reminder of the critical role civil engineers play in ensuring the safety and integrity of buildings in Nigeria.