Lagos State Implements Strict Deadline for Elevator Registration to Curb High-Rise Accidents
Lagos State Government has issued a firm and non-negotiable deadline for all building owners and facility managers to register and certify every elevator operating within the state. The directive, announced by the Director-General of the Lagos State Safety Commission, Lanre Mojola, warns that any elevator found running without regulatory approval will be decommissioned after March 31, 2026. This move is part of a statewide enforcement exercise aimed at preventing avoidable mechanical failures and accidents in Lagos's rapidly expanding high-rise environment.
Enforcement and Safety Standards
Mojola emphasized that the state government will begin strict enforcement against buildings operating uncertified vertical transportation equipment. He stressed that elevators in residential, commercial, and public buildings must be properly registered and certified before they can continue operations. As Lagos's skyline continues to grow, the demand for elevators and other vertical transportation equipment has increased significantly, making strict adherence to safety standards critical to safeguarding lives.
According to Mojola, the Commission requires that all elevators be registered and certified before they are commissioned and subjected to periodic inspections throughout their operational lifespan. To ease compliance, the state government has introduced an online platform that enables property owners and facility managers to digitally register elevators for inspection and safety certification. Newly installed lifts must undergo inspection before use, while existing elevators must undergo regular safety audits to ensure they remain safe for public use.
Concerns from Property Owners
Despite the necessity of the directive, some property owners have urged the government to ensure that the registration and inspection process remains efficient and accessible to avoid disruptions to building operations. Adewale Johnson, a commercial building owner on Lagos Island, spoke with The Guardian over the weekend, stating that while the directive is necessary to improve safety standards, authorities should also ensure that the certification process does not become cumbersome for property owners. This feedback highlights the need for a balanced approach that prioritizes safety without hindering operational efficiency.
Mojola warned that the grace period granted to building owners is fast approaching its end, and any elevator found to be unregistered or lacking a valid safety certification after the deadline will be shut down. This enforcement is part of a broader effort to enhance public safety in one of Nigeria's most populous and urbanized states, where high-rise buildings are becoming increasingly common.
