President, Council for the Registration of Engineering in Nigeria, Mr. Kunle Ogunbayo, says many buildings collapse due to the engagement of nonprofessionals.
He said the way out of such situation was for building owners to imbibe the culture of involving qualified engineers and other professionals in their construction work.
Ogunbayo said this during a two-day seminar organised by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, in collaboration with VAAC Technical Limited in Lagos, on Friday.
The seminar was about designing commercial buildings with the latest energy compliance technology.
Ogunbayo said, “The cases of collapse buildings are giving sleepless nights to professionals. Most times, building owners develop their property without involving various professionals like engineers.
“Unless you put the proper people in charge of your building, you are exposing yourself and others to danger. Most developers want to cut corners by engaging unqualified people.”
He also advocated a synergy between institutions of higher learning and professionals to reduce the knowledge gap between engineering students and the professionals.
Ogunbayo said, “Those in charge of academics should reach out to the professionals outside to come and share their knowledge. No university can supply all the needs of the students.