Following recent earth tremors in Abuja, the Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON) has called for immediate safety inspections of buildings, particularly in Mpape and surrounding areas.
In a statement issued by Registrar and Secretary Adetunji Adeniran, CORBON stressed the urgent need for proactive measures to assess the structural integrity of buildings in the affected regions. “The Council acknowledges the recent earth tremors in Abuja, especially in Mpape and its surroundings,” the statement noted.
Although government agencies, led by Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology Uche Nnaji, have assured residents that the tremors pose no immediate environmental threat, CORBON highlighted the importance of precautionary actions to ensure public safety. “CORBON emphasizes the need for appropriate safety measures and proactive assessments for all buildings in the affected areas,” Adeniran stated.
The council urged prompt action to prevent any potential hazards arising from structural weaknesses and called for comprehensive building assessments. In its regulatory capacity, CORBON provided specific recommendations for property owners, government agencies, and the public: “Conduct thorough structural integrity tests, including non-destructive evaluations, on residential, commercial, and public buildings in the affected areas.”
CORBON also encouraged collaboration between registered builders and other experts to identify and address vulnerabilities within structures. Additionally, the council advised prioritizing safety and structural integrity in construction and maintenance practices following the tremors. “Such measures will help identify and prevent potential risks to life and property,” it noted.
Reaffirming its commitment to upholding best practices in the building sector, CORBON emphasized its dedication to promoting global standards and ensuring public safety. The council promised to continue monitoring the situation and provide guidance as necessary.
According to Prof. Olusegun Ige, Director General of the Nigeria Geological Survey Agency, around 48 separate earthquakes have been recorded, with both intensity and frequency increasing between Friday, September 13, and Monday, September 16. “The NGSA Monitoring Station at Katampe has captured several significant ground motions with high magnitudes in recent days. Only one mild event occurred on September 13, while six were noted on September 14, and over 21 on the 15th, with higher intensities. More than 20 events were recorded on September 16, indicating an upward trend in both intensity and frequency from September 13 to 16, with a few weak events observed on September 17,” he explained.
