The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) has attributed structural failures in the construction industry primarily to faulty designs and the use of substandard materials.

This was stated by the NSE President, Mrs Margaret Oguntala, during a public lecture and induction ceremony held on Tuesday to mark the 2025 Engineering Week in Damaturu, Yobe State.

Speaking through the NSE Vice President, Usman Tijjani, Oguntala stressed the need for strict adherence to standard and professional engineering practices to prevent project delays, budget overruns, and structural collapses.

She highlighted that such failures not only pose significant safety risks but also have far-reaching economic consequences.

The theme of the event, “Construction of Flyover and Other Related Engineering Infrastructures,” was described as timely, especially in light of the ongoing infrastructural developments in the state.

Oguntala commended the Yobe State Government for its efforts, particularly the construction of Damaturu’s first flyover, which she cited as an example of commitment to engineering excellence.

However, she warned that ambitious projects like flyovers demand comprehensive structural integrity assessments, accurate soil testing, proper design, and rigorous quality control to ensure durability and safety.

She also pointed out that flyover projects are capital-intensive and require adequate budgetary provisions and supervision to avoid abandonment, which can turn such investments into liabilities.

Oguntala urged engineers, contractors, and government agencies to uphold professional ethics and standards, paying close attention to technical factors including soil bearing capacity, concrete strength, design loads, and environmental impacts.

Earlier in the event, the NSE Chairman for Damaturu Branch, Mr. Aliyu Sabo, outlined the objectives of the 2025 Engineering Week, which include promoting excellence in engineering practice, raising public awareness about quality project execution, and encouraging ethical standards in the profession.

The week’s activities will feature visits to engineering-related organisations, project sites, orphanages, and hospitals, concluding with a dinner and award night.

Mr. Sabo also paid tribute to the late Mr. Jibrin Umar Kortoni, a former Director-General at the Ministry of Lands and Survey and past chairman of the NSE Damaturu Branch, acknowledging his contributions to the Society’s Secretariat development in the state.

During the event, 17 new members were officially inducted into the Damaturu Branch of the Nigerian Society of Engineers. (The Guardian)