Abia govt. warns developers that 3-storey buildings without elevators will no longer be approved
The government of Abia State has issued a caution to property developers, stating that it will no longer grant permission for the construction of three-storey buildings unless they include elevators.
The authorities have mandated that all buildings with three floors must be equipped with elevators to guarantee that structures being built within the state are secure, suitable, and livable for both occupants and proprietors.
During a training program for the staff of the building control unit of the Greater Aba Development Authority (GADA), the agency’s General Manager, Architect Uche Ukeje, revealed that the rigorous enforcement of building control regulations would prevent building collapses, safeguard lives and properties, and promote the development of environmentally sustainable structures.
Ukeje, represented by Mr. Enyinnaya Romanus, the Head of GADA’s building control unit, advised the unit’s officials to conduct thorough, step-by-step oversight and monitoring of construction projects to uphold building standards.
He stated, “Before now, there was nothing like building control in Aba. Now, the rule is that before you cast your foundation, there are certain approvals you must get. Then, you come back and we must come to site to inspect as you build to enable us know if you are following the approvals. We are going to ensure stage by stage supervision and monitoring of building projects. GADA won’t allow sharp practices.
“There are certain facilities or designs that must be fitted in some type of buildings otherwise you won’t get further approvals to build. No developer will get further approval if there are no provision for elevators in any storey buildings from three floors. We must approve your plan for drainage and waste disposal or your project will be stalled until you comply with the standard practice. The era of piping waste to drainage by developers is gone. Any developer who contravenes any standard will be arrested and prosecuted if he fails to remedy the contravene within the period allowed. We are not against any developer but to ensure that buildings are safe, fit and habitable.
“We don’t want to hear of buildings collapsing and killing people. If you lose a property, you know how many millions of money that will be involved and you also know the state of the economy. GADA has come to improve the old method of buildings without standard. We have digitalized our operations. You can ascertain the status of your project, no matter your location. And if we ask you to stop work on your project, you can easily check our platforms and find out the reason.
“We are also working with environmental health officials to arrest and prosecute those destroying our environment. We have already carried out adequate sensitization of residents about the need to protect the environment.”
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli
