Analysing Four Decades of Causative Factors in Building Collapses in Lagos State, Nigeria.

Purpose: The recurrent rate of building collapses in the Nigerian construction industry has remained a subject of concern that requires urgent attention. This is due to the loss of lives and properties that accompany most of these horrible events. This paper examines the main causes of building collapses. Design/Methodology/Approach: The study employed a descriptive research design with a purposive sampling approach used to obtain relevant published secondary data covering one hundred and eight (108) cases of building collapses. To achieve this, data on building collapses between 1985 and 2023 were obtained, cleaned, and analysed. This was done by categorising all the locations into either the Island or the Mainland. The yearly rate and trend of collapses were examined, and the correlation between deaths and the number of storeys was established. The data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Research Limitation: The findings in this study are limited to Lagos State. It cannot be used as a basis for conclusions for other states within Nigeria Findings: The analyses revealed that about 70% of total collapses over the past 40 years occurred on the Mainland, and Structural failure was the predominant cause of building collapse over the past four decades. The R-squared value for the established correlation was 0.012. Practical Implication: The results provide guidance for regulatory bodies and construction professionals on strengthening inspection regimes, improving structural design practices, and prioritising interventions in high-risk regions and low-rise structures. Social Implication: The study highlights the urgent need to increase public awareness about construction safety and the importance of adhering to approved building standards. Originality and Value: This study provides insight into the Lagos State region that requires urgent attention on the subject matter.