Engineering Geologists Essential for Preventing Building Collapse and Poor Road Infrastructure in Nigeria, Says UI Don

The University of Ibadan's Professor Ibrahim Adewuyi Oyediran, a distinguished expert in Environmental and Engineering Geology, emphasized the crucial role of engineering geologists in preventing building collapses and addressing the environmental impacts of construction activities in Nigeria. Speaking during a valedictory lecture honoring Professor Gabriel Oladapo Adeyemi, who recently retired at the age of seventy, Professor Oyediran highlighted the urgent need for Nigeria to recognize and leverage the expertise of engineering geologists in sustainable construction practices.

According to Professor Oyediran, the ongoing issues of failing roads and collapsing buildings stem from a disregard for environmental considerations in construction practices. He lamented, “Nigeria as a country has reached a point where we can no longer afford to pay lip service to the vital role played by engineering geologists in delivering sustainable structures.” He noted that the nation often prioritizes aesthetic design over essential factors such as material suitability and bearing capacity, leading to unsafe and unsustainable infrastructure.

The professor pointed out that the design of infrastructure in Nigeria often overlooks fundamental geological principles. “Our roads keep failing, and our buildings keep coming down because we refuse to consider the environment in the placement of structures,” he stated. This lack of attention to geological conditions significantly impacts the durability and safety of constructions.

Professor Oyediran further explained that engineering geology plays a vital role in creating structures that are safe, durable, resource-efficient, and environmentally responsible. He stressed that by incorporating geological conditions into the planning and construction processes, engineering geologists contribute to societal well-being and sustainable development. “Their importance cannot be overstated in civil engineering and infrastructure development,” he asserted.

Highlighting the multifaceted benefits of involving engineering geologists in infrastructure projects, Professor Oyediran stated that they provide invaluable insights at every stage of development. Their expertise helps build resilience against natural hazards, addresses environmental issues stemming from human activities, and reduces construction costs and risks. By bridging the gap between scientific understanding and practical engineering applications, engineering geologists are crucial to ensuring the safety and sustainability of Nigeria’s built environment.

As Nigeria continues to grapple with infrastructure challenges, the need for a paradigm shift toward incorporating geological expertise in construction practices becomes increasingly clear. Engineering geologists are not merely contributors; they are indispensable partners in achieving a sustainable future for Nigeria's infrastructure.