Estate Developer, Ibrahim Folajomi Raises Concern Over POP Ceiling Collapses
An estate developer, Ibrahim Folajomi, has expressed concern over the rising incidents of Plaster of Paris (POP) ceiling collapses in buildings across Nigeria, warning that the trend poses a serious safety threat to residents and property.
Speaking during a conversation on Channels Television, Folajomi attributed the increasing rate of ceiling failures to poor workmanship, the use of substandard materials, and the widespread engagement of untrained artisans in construction projects.
“POP ceilings are not the problem,” he said. “The real issue is how they are being handled. We are seeing more of these installations being done by people who are not qualified, who use weak frames, poor mixtures, and no professional supervision.”
Folajomi noted that while POP remains a popular choice for its aesthetic appeal, its proper installation requires technical precision and expertise. Unfortunately, many developers and homeowners prioritize cost savings and appearance over structural integrity.
He further emphasized the role of regulatory agencies in curbing the menace, calling on bodies such as the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) to step up monitoring and enforcement.
“Building safety starts with responsibility,” he said. “Until we enforce standards and ensure only trained professionals are allowed to handle such sensitive components, we’ll keep seeing these avoidable collapses.”
The conversation on Channels Television comes amid growing public concern over building safety, with recent reports of POP ceiling failures in residential buildings in Lagos, Abuja, and other urban centers. Some of these incidents have resulted in injuries and significant damage to property.
Folajomi urged Nigerians to invest in qualified personnel and routine maintenance checks, stressing that the long-term safety and value of a property depend on the quality of materials and expertise involved in its construction.
