The Nigerian Institute of Civil Engineers, Awka Chapter, has intensified its awareness campaign and sensitization of the public through an advocacy walk against building and infrastructure collapse in Awka.
The group, which walked through some major roads in Awka, carried placards with various inscriptions, including “Safe building is a human right,” “Engineering ethics must come before profit,” “Infrastructure failure is a national emergency,” and “Stop quackery in construction,” among others.
Addressing journalists after the walk, the Chairman of the Institute, Engr. Chidi Obiudu, explained that the awareness and advocacy programme was aimed at promoting public consciousness about safe construction practices, professional ethics, and the dangers associated with substandard building materials and poor workmanship, as well as engaging key stakeholders, professionals, and the general public in advocating improved construction standards and the prevention of avoidable building and infrastructure failures within Anambra State and Nigeria at large
In his speech, State House of Assembly Committee Chairman on Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Emma Nwafor, stressed that the construction of any structure should follow laid-down rules, regulations, and specifications and be handled by professionals and qualified engineers, lamenting that quackery has caused avoidable deaths and the waste of huge material resources.
In their separate contributions, a community leader and Vice Chairman of the Institute, Engr. Chidi Anuligo; a university lecturer and Secretary of the Institute, Engr. Collins Okoli; and Comrade Emmanuel Chukwunonso from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, said professionals should focus on their areas of specialization and obtain the necessary approvals from relevant agencies before commencing construction in order to ensure safe structures.
Angel Network News (ANN) reports that the event attracted many stakeholders, including engineering students of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, community leaders, and other stakeholders.
