The Lagos State Materials Testing Laboratory Agency (LSMTL) has urged building materials dealers to prioritise quality assurance to safeguard lives and property at a sensitisation campaign held at Odunlade Building Materials Market, Coker, Lagos.
Eko Hot News reports that the forum, themed “Quality Assurance is the Key to Preserving Lives, Check Your Buildings for Structural Integrity,” brought together market leaders and dealers to address concerns over substandard construction inputs and their impact on structural safety.
Engr. Olayinka Abdul, General Manager of LSMTL, represented by Mrs Omolara Awosanya, Director of Business Development, emphasised that materials testing is the foundation of any construction process. She warned that compromising on quality at purchase increases the risk of catastrophic building failures.
She highlighted that most building collapses in Lagos are linked to substandard materials and stressed the need for dealers to partner with regulatory agencies to ensure only certified products leave their outlets and that their market structures are safe.
The General Manager reaffirmed that the Lagos State Government, under its renewed infrastructure agenda, will no longer tolerate compromises on quality, insisting the era of cutting corners must end.
Mr Emenike Steven, Market Leader of Odunlade Building Materials Dealers Association, commended LSMTL for the initiative and pledged the market’s commitment to sensitising members and ensuring compliance with standard testing protocols.
Mrs Titilayo Lawal, Director of Research and Development at LSMTL, noted that just as individuals safeguard their health, buildings require intentional care through proper material scrutiny, retrofitting, and testing of soil, water, steel, and concrete.
Bldr. Babajide Oyedele, Assistant Head of Technical Services, facilitated practical demonstrations on identifying substandard materials and accessing LSMTL’s comprehensive testing services, including concrete, soil, aggregate, steel, asphalt, and non-destructive testing for existing structures.
Oyedele urged dealers to view materials testing not as an expense but as an investment in public safety and business sustainability, emphasising the importance of a coordinated approach to sustainable building development.
The forum concluded with a commitment to continuous monitoring and regular engagement between LSMTL and Odunlade Market leadership to maintain compliance with materials testing protocols and support safe, high-quality construction practices.
