Lagos, Nigeria – September 13, 2025 – Nigeria’s construction industry has once again been thrust into the spotlight as cases of building collapse continue to make headlines. From Lagos to Abuja and Port Harcourt, reports of structures caving in have sparked renewed debate on the role of substandard materials in the nation’s housing crisis. Against this backdrop, stakeholders gathered at the Tiger TMT Iron Rods Dealers Meet in Lagos to chart a way forward for safer construction practices.
The event, hosted by Mr. Adekunle Johnson Babatunde, Chairman of J Kunle Investment, in partnership with African Industries Group, the manufacturer of Tiger Steel, brought together dealers, engineers, professional bodies, and construction partners. It was held at Diva Event Centre, Ajah, Lagos, and served as a platform to address how authentic materials and stronger distribution channels could help reduce the rising cases of building collapse in the country.
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Dealers as the First Line of Defense
Speaking on behalf of the dealers, Mr. Adekunle Adeniyi, Chairman of Samadkunle Group of Companies, popularly known as Samad commended African Industries for its consistency in producing steel that meets international safety standards. According to him, the reputation of Tiger Steel as a reliable brand gives dealers the confidence to stand behind it.
Mr. Adekunle Adeniyi (Samad) addressing the attendees
“It is easier to represent a brand when you know that what you are selling is reliable, trusted, and backed by quality assurance,” Adeniyi said.
He explained that dealers are more than just middlemen in the construction value chain. They are the first line of defense against the infiltration of counterfeit and substandard products that often find their way into local markets. By bridging the gap between manufacturers and end users, dealers play a critical role in ensuring that contractors, engineers, and homeowners get the right products for their projects.
Building Collapse and Public Safety
Nigeria has recorded alarming rates of building collapse over the past decade, with experts often pointing to poor workmanship and the use of substandard materials as key causes. The Building Collapse Prevention Guild (BCPG) reported that more than 500 buildings collapsed across the country between 2010 and 2023, with Lagos State topping the list. These incidents have claimed lives, destroyed properties worth billions, and eroded public trust in the construction sector.
It was against this backdrop that Samad stressed the urgency of partnership and constant engagement between manufacturers and dealers.
“This meeting is vital because it strengthens the bond between manufacturer, dealer, and customer. When we stand together, the market listens,” he told participants.
Strengthening Distribution Channels
Samad further called for improved distribution channels to ensure that authentic Tiger Steel products are widely available to builders. He noted that weak distribution networks often create loopholes that allow counterfeiters to exploit the market.
He also urged African Industries to maintain open communication on issues such as supply timelines, price fluctuations, and technical clarifications. According to him, this would allow dealers to better serve customers and protect the integrity of the brand.
Dealers’ Commitment to Quality
On behalf of the dealer community, Adekunle Adeniyi pledged to intensify awareness campaigns targeted at contractors, engineers, and homeowners. He explained that many building failures stem from ignorance of material quality, a gap that dealers must help fill through education and advocacy.
“We will continue to promote only authentic products and work with you to fight counterfeiting and market sabotage,” he assured.
In his closing remarks, he emphasized the power of collaboration:
“Steel may be strength, but partnership is greater strength. With Tiger Steel as manufacturer, and we dealers as your ambassadors, the future of construction in Nigeria is stronger, safer, and more sustainable.”
Looking Ahead
The Tiger Steel Dealers Meet not only reinforced African Industries’ commitment to quality but also highlighted the crucial role of distribution partners in safeguarding public safety. With Nigeria’s urban population expanding rapidly and housing demand on the rise, the meeting served as a reminder that cutting corners in construction is no longer an option.
Stakeholders left the event with a renewed resolve: to close ranks against counterfeiters, uphold quality assurance, and strengthen the trust of Nigerians in the country’s construction sector.
