Ogun State Government to Rebuild 1976 Legislative and Commissioners’ Quarters After Structural Assessment

The Ogun State Government will demolish and reconstruct the state’s legislative and commissioners’ quarters in Abeokuta after a technical evaluation confirmed that the nearly fifty-year-old buildings no longer meet safety and operational standards.

Jamiu Omoniyi, Commissioner for Housing, said the decision followed a comprehensive structural assessment that found the buildings unsafe and uneconomical to maintain despite multiple rehabilitation efforts. He noted that the state is acting in line with the National Building Code of Nigeria (2006), which requires public assets to adhere to minimum safety thresholds and modern performance specifications.

According to Omoniyi, the quarters constructed in 1976 have exceeded their intended lifespan. He explained that deterioration in foundational elements and utility systems made continued occupation untenable and created escalating maintenance costs for the state.

Modern Designs to Replace Obsolete Infrastructure

The reconstruction forms part of Ogun’s broader urban renewal and public-sector housing upgrade strategy. The new quarters will incorporate contemporary, energy-efficient designs, improved utility networks, and enhanced service infrastructure intended to support modern administrative operations.

Omoniyi emphasiszed that the redevelopment would adopt transparent procurement processes and prioritize the use of local contractors to stimulate job creation and deepen technical capacity within the state’s construction sector.

Strengthening Governance and Long-Term Asset Value

The commissioner described the move as a strategic reinvestment into Ogun’s public real estate portfolio. He noted that replacing obsolete assets with structurally compliant and energy-efficient buildings would reduce long-term maintenance liabilities and enhance the efficiency of state governance.

He added that the project aligns with ongoing initiatives across the state, including new housing developments, urban infrastructure consolidation, and regeneration schemes aimed at strengthening the built environment.

Conclusion

Ogun State’s plan to rebuild the 1976 legislative and commissioners’ quarters underscores a shift toward evidence-based asset management and compliance with national building standards. The redevelopment is expected to improve safety, reduce lifecycle costs, and modernize critical administrative infrastructure, positioning the state for more efficient service delivery and sustainable urban growth.