New NIStructE President Outlines Strategic Reforms To Combat Building Collapse Through Climate Responsive Engineering Design

Dr. Taiwo Elegba outlines a new vision for Nigerian structural engineering, focusing on climate safety and the 2026 Seismic Design guidelines.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 28, 2026, 4:41 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from The Nation Newspaper

Structural Engineering Body Targets Systemic Industry Reforms

The Nigerian Institution of Structural Engineers (NIStructE) has initiated a major drive to reposition structural engineering practice following the inauguration of Dr. Taiwo H.O. Elegba as its new president. During his investiture ceremony, Elegba addressed the recurring crisis of building collapses in Nigeria, attributing the scourge to a combination of poor structural design, inadequate supervision, and fundamental soil issues. He emphasized that the institution is prioritizing internal reforms to ensure that the professional outcomes in the built environment finally align with public safety expectations and global best practices.

Integrating Climate Responsive Strategies Into Design

A significant portion of the new president’s agenda focuses on the intersection of engineering and environmental responsibility. Elegba noted that the construction industry is a major contributor to carbon emissions, with every component from beams to foundations playing a role. He urged engineers to minimize their environmental footprint right from the initial design stage by optimizing the use of materials like steel and concrete. This shift is intended to reduce waste and prepare the local industry for upcoming international standards that will likely place strict limits on carbon emissions across all infrastructure sectors.

Data Driven Analysis To Enhance Material Efficiency

To prevent structural failures without compromising safety, the institution is advocating for more advanced analytical methods in engineering design. By utilizing improved data driven approaches, structural engineers can determine the most efficient distribution of materials, ensuring that structures are robust enough to withstand environmental pressures while remaining cost effective. Elegba argued that moving away from traditional, repetitive methods is essential for modernization, stating that the profession must evolve to keep pace with the increasingly complex demands of 24th century infrastructure.