Professor Jurbe Joseph Molwus, from the Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Department of Building at the University of Jos, delivered the university’s 110th inaugural lecture to the university community. The event took place on the 17th of December 2024 at the multipurpose auditorium, Bauchi Road Campus, University of Jos, Plateau State, at 11:30 a.m. The lecture, titled “Curbing Building Collapse and Sick Building Syndrome: The Nexus Between the Structure and Production Management,” examined the processes involved in building and how to curb building collapse.
Professor Molwus, the Head of Department of Building and ASUU UniJos Chairperson explained the term “building” as an art, a science, a process, a product, and a profession. He elaborated that as an art, building refers to the creativity involved. As a science, it refers to the principles and logic leading to the interaction of materials and forces. As a process, it is the act of production, while as a profession, it refers to a group of well-trained and licensed individuals responsible for building management.
He also explained the term “building collapse,” which he described as the sudden structural failure of a building, either partially or entirely, threatening human life and existence. Additionally, he introduced the concept of “Sick Building Syndrome” (SBS), which he defined as a medical condition where people feel unwell, experiencing symptoms such as headaches or breathing problems, while inside a building. These symptoms, he explained, often improve when individuals leave the building and are commonly caused by poor air quality, inadequate ventilation, or exposure to chemicals in the building.
Professor Molwus identified the causes of building collapse as poor workmanship by contractors, faulty design, inadequate bearing capacity, use of incompetent contractors, faulty construction methodology, lack of teamwork, and inadequate supervision and monitoring, among others. He also outlined the causes of Sick Building Syndrome (SBS), which include inadequate ventilation (insufficient fresh air circulation), chemical pollutants from cleaning products, building materials, or office equipment, mold or dampness causing allergens or irritants, temperature or humidity issues (such as being too hot, cold, or humid), and poor building design that traps pollutants inside. These factors, he noted, can lead to discomfort and health problems for people within the affected buildings.
In his conclusion, Professor Molwus recommended that the federal government should ensure full legislation and enforcement of the National Building Code (NBC) while state governments should partner with the NBC. He also urged universities to allocate funds to enable collaboration with the NBC and to replace obsolete practices. Industries, he said, should partner with academia to take research outputs off the shelves and promote the use of local materials. Furthermore, he encouraged academics to continue research efforts to advance building practices.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Tanko Ishaya, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor Josh Amuptian, emphasized the significance of inaugural lectures as a core mandate of universities. He acknowledged the relevance of the lecture in addressing critical challenges in society, such as building collapses and Sick Building Syndrome. He noted that building collapses often lead to loss of lives, property, and broken homes, and commended the Department of Building for its contributions to education and societal development. Professor Amuptian also praised Professor Molwus for his extensive research and findings, stating that urgent action is needed to address building collapse across the nation.
The event was graced by dignitaries, including former Vice-Chancellors Professor Sebastian Maimoko and Professor Monday Mwangvwat, ASUU chairpersons such as Dr. Paul Opine (Delta State University) and Professor Kayode Adebayo (University of Lagos), deans, senate members, heads of departments, and many others. Awards were presented to Professor Molwus as the 110th inaugural lecturer, as well as by the members of the Nigerian Institute of Building Plateau State Chapter, the student association body, and the Ngas Association of Plateau State.
Stakeholders’ Perspectives
Builder Adedeji Adeleye, Chairman of the Nigeria Institute of Building (NIOB), Plateau Chapter, commended the lecture, emphasizing its importance in addressing Sick Building Syndrome. He urged everyone to ensure that their living and working spaces are designed and built with safety and health in mind. Adeleye also assured that registered builders are ready to partner with the government and other stakeholders to promote ethical and lawful building practices. He emphasized the commitment of professional builders to creating structures free from Sick Building Syndrome.
Students of the Department of Building also shared their insights. Benjamin Aboya, a 400-level student, stressed the importance of a strong foundation for building longevity, stating, “Once the foundation is right, the building will last for a long time.” Fwanshak Tankat Danladi, another 400-level student, noted that the lecturer’s emphasis on teamwork and proper building practices is key to preventing building collapses. He suggested that the government, industries, and individuals must collaborate to address these challenges.
Arogbemi Folukemi, also a 400-level student, underscored the necessity of engaging professional builders and conducting soil testing to ensure the site’s suitability for construction. She highlighted that thorough investigations before commencing construction can prevent future structural failures.
Victoria Fanzat, a 500-level student, discussed the risks associated with shortcuts during construction, which often result in Sick Building Syndrome. She recommended adherence to proper procedures and hiring licensed, professional builders to avoid these issues.
Historical Context and Academic Contributions
The University of Jos held its first inaugural lecture on November 12, 1980. This academic tradition has continued, showcasing the intellectual capacity of the university and its commitment to scholarly excellence. Professor Molwus’s lecture follows a legacy of impactful inaugural lectures, with the first being delivered by Professor John N. N. O. O. Ukpong, a professor of Geography, in 1977.
Professor Jurbe Joseph Molwus’s academic journey is a testament to his dedication and hard work. He began his education at Lamurde Primary School, Mubi, and completed it at Holy Cross Primary School, Pankshin, in 1988. He proceeded to Government Secondary School, Bet, Pankshin, where he excelled academically. He earned a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Building from the University of Jos in 2005, followed by a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in Construction Management in 2008.
Pictorial excerpts
Report and photos by Yakubu Nancy Tok and Usman Mercy (Inaugural Lecture Correspondents) 5/5
