Engineers Raise Alarm Over Potential Earthquake Impact in Lagos, Ibadan, Others

Engineers Raise Alarm Over Potential Earthquake Impact in Lagos, Ibadan, Others

Structural engineers in Nigeria have sounded a warning over the country’s exposure to earthquake-related risks, identifying major cities including Lagos, Ibadan, Abeokuta and Benin City as areas that could be affected.

The caution was issued by a former president of the Nigerian Institution of Structural Engineers, Olushola Sanni, who noted that many buildings across the country are erected without adequate engineering supervision or consideration for seismic forces.

Sanni explained that although Nigeria is generally regarded as a low seismic risk zone, it is not entirely immune to earth tremors. He pointed to recent global developments showing that earthquake vibrations can travel long distances, sometimes hundreds of kilometres, with the potential to trigger damage and panic far from their source.

According to him, most buildings in Nigeria are not designed to withstand such forces, thereby exposing residents to avoidable dangers.

“Earthquakes do not respect borders, and distance from the source does not guarantee safety. The absence of major earthquakes in recent years should not create a false sense of security,” he warned.

He further drew attention to seismic activities recorded in Accra, Ghana, noting that geological formations along the West African coastline cut across national boundaries. This, he said, suggests that seismic energy generated in neighbouring regions could extend into parts of southwestern Nigeria.

Sanni specifically highlighted that cities built on softer soil formations—such as Lagos, Ibadan, Abeokuta and Benin City—could experience intensified ground shaking if such waves reach them.

To address the looming risk, he disclosed that the institution would, on April 16, 2026, unveil new guidelines for earthquake-resistant building design in Lagos. The framework, he said, is expected to align local construction practices with international safety standards.

He stressed the need for stricter adherence to engineering principles, noting that safer buildings typically feature balanced structural layouts, reinforced connections, and proper detailing.

The warning comes amid growing concerns over building safety standards in Nigeria, with experts urging authorities and developers to prioritise resilience in construction to safeguard lives and property.