Guests at the unveiling of a new line of innovative construction products by Axion Engineering
Experts in Nigeria’s building sector are advocating for the adoption of lightweight concrete technology to reduce the risk of high-rise building collapses. Dr Okey Eze, CEO of Axion Engineering, noted that this type of concrete is significantly lighter than conventional concrete, providing improved structural safety.
“Conventional concrete weighs about 2,400 kilograms per cubic meter, while lightweight concrete weighs 1.5 to 1.7 kilograms per cubic meter,” Dr Eze explained, stressing that reduced dead weight improves durability, thermal insulation, and speeds up construction.
He added that Axion Engineering’s products have been approved by the Federal Ministry of Works and aim to create stronger, longer-lasting buildings.
Catherine Kadiri, Managing Director of CM Star Services Limited, supported the move, emphasising the need for practical innovations to build safe homes, roads, and infrastructure.
Building collapses have surged in Nigeria, with 48 urban structures failing between 2010 and 2020, a 77 per cent rise over the previous decade. Experts attribute the trend to substandard materials, poor construction practices, inadequate supervision, and weak regulatory enforcement.
Dr Eze urged the government to implement measures mandating the use of innovative construction products and integrating lightweight concrete systems into building standards to enhance safety and prevent future disasters.
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