Facility focus: Lack of Maintenance in Multi-store Yard Buildings in Nigeria : Akintola

By Kenny Akintola

Multi-storeyed buildings in Nigeria grapple with significant maintenance challenges, largely stemming from various factors that contribute to a prevalent state of disrepair. A primary concern is the insufficient allocation of financial resources for maintenance, resulting in delayed repairs and compromised structural integrity. Compounding the issue, there is a shortage of skilled personnel and insufficient training programmes focused on building maintenance.

Economic constraints often compel building owners in Nigeria to prioritize initial construction costs over long-term maintenance. This emphasis on cost-cutting leads to the neglect of routine inspections and timely repairs, allowing minor issues to escalate into major structural problems. The absence of a proactive maintenance approach sets off a chain reaction, ultimately jeopardizing the safety and longevity of high-rise buildings.

Bureaucratic hurdles and ineffective regulatory frameworks further impede the enforcement of building maintenance standards in the country. Without stringent measures, building owners may overlook essential upkeep, posing risks to occupants and neighboring properties. The absence of a comprehensive and enforceable maintenance code contributes to the prevalence of poorly maintained high-rises in Nigeria.
Insufficient investment in technology for monitoring and maintenance exacerbates these challenges. Modern solutions like advanced sensors and predictive analytics can help identify potential issues before they escalate. However, the slow adoption of such technologies in Nigeria contributes to a reactive rather than a preventive approach to high-rise maintenance.

Addressing these issues necessitates a holistic approach involving government intervention, industry collaboration, and a shift in the mindset of building owners. The government should establish and enforce stringent maintenance regulations, provide incentives for compliance, and invest in training programs for maintenance professionals. Collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors are crucial to pooling resources and expertise for effective high-rise maintenance.

In conclusion, the suboptimal maintenance of high-rise buildings in Nigeria results from financial constraints, a shortage of skilled personnel, ineffective regulatory frameworks, and a reluctance to adopt modern maintenance technologies. Resolving these challenges demands a coordinated effort that includes government initiatives, industry collaboration, and a commitment from building owners to prioritize long-term safety and sustainability over short-term cost savings.

Kenny Akintola is the Chief Facility Officer, Express Business Support (EBS)