- Abia State Government requires all 3-storey buildings to have elevators.
- Developers must obtain approvals for building plans, including drainage and waste disposal.
- GADA will conduct stage-by-stage monitoring and supervision of building projects.
- Non-compliance with building standards will result in project stall, arrest, and prosecution.
- Regulations aim to ensure buildings are safe, habitable, and environmentally friendly.
Abia State Government has announced a new policy requiring all three-storey buildings to be equipped with elevators. This move aims to ensure that buildings in the state are safe, habitable, and environmentally friendly. According to Architect Uche Ukeje, General Manager of the Greater Aba Development Authority (GADA), strict implementation of building control measures will prevent building collapses, protect lives and properties, and promote sustainable construction practices.
This development is part of the state government’s efforts to improve infrastructure and urban planning. Recently, Governor Alex Otti flagged off the construction of 17 ultra-modern court buildings across the state, highlighting his commitment to providing necessary amenities for the judicial arm of the government .
Ukeje emphasized the importance of rigorous monitoring and supervision of building projects to uphold building standards in Aba. Represented by Mr. Enyinnaya Romanus, Head of the building control unit of GADA, Ukeje warned officials to ensure stage-by-stage monitoring and supervision.
Prior to this, Aba lacked building control measures. Now, developers must obtain necessary approvals before casting foundations, followed by regular site inspections to ensure compliance . This new approach aims to prevent sharp practices and promote adherence to building standards.
Key aspects of this initiative include:
· Stage-by-stage supervision: Regular monitoring of building projects to ensure compliance with approvals.
· Building control unit: GADA’s unit responsible for overseeing building projects and enforcing standards.
· Approvals and inspections: Developers must obtain approvals before commencing projects and undergo regular site inspections to ensure compliance.
GADA has outlined strict requirements for building approvals in Aba, prioritizing safety, habitability, and environmental sustainability. Key regulations include:
- Elevators: Mandatory in three-storey buildings.
- Drainage and waste disposal: Approved plans required to prevent environmental hazards.
- Standard compliance: Developers must adhere to approved plans and standards.
Non-compliance will result in:
- Project stall
- Arrest and prosecution if contraventions are not remedied within the allowed period.
GADA emphasizes that these regulations aim to ensure buildings are safe, habitable, and environmentally friendly, rather than targeting developers.
GADA’s primary concern is preventing building collapses that result in loss of life and property. Given the current economic state, property losses can be devastating. To address this, GADA has introduced new standards and digitalized its operations to enhance transparency and efficiency.
Key developments include:
- Digitalized operations: Property owners can track their project status remotely.
- Environmental protection: GADA is collaborating with environmental health officials to arrest and prosecute individuals harming the environment.
- Public sensitization: Residents have been educated on the importance of environmental protection.
GADA’s efforts aim to ensure safe, habitable, and environmentally friendly buildings in Aba.
