As the economic crunch tightens its grip on Nigeria, engineers are revolutionizing construction methods, resorting to bamboo as a substitute for pricey iron rods in building projects.
With the escalating cost of traditional materials like iron rods, many homeowners and developers are embracing bamboo as a cost-effective alternative, defying conventional norms and sparking a nationwide construction revolution.
In a country where adaptability is key to survival, Nigerians are showcasing their resilience by innovating unconventional solutions to combat soaring material costs.
From casting pillars to decking, bamboo, traditionally used for scaffolding, is now a staple in construction projects, offering both affordability and functionality.
According to Mr. Andrew Asaga, a building engineer, 12mm, 16mm, 20mm, 25mm, 10mm, or 8mm iron rods are recommended for building apartments depending on the strength of the material and the designs specified, as reported by Vanguard.
He said, “Bamboo can also do the job of an iron rods to an extent. Some persons now use only bamboo for the pillars.
Some mix bamboo with iron rods for the decking to save cost. Others now use only bamboo for decking.
“An iron rod costs between N10,000 to N30,000 depending on the size.
“This was twice the price it was sold for last year.
“Few weeks ago, a client who wanted to build a bungalow asked that I use bamboo mixed with iron rods to build the pillars because the cost of iron rods has increased.
“He wanted me to construct 8 pillars for the building and would need four 12 mm iron rods for a pillar. A ton of 12mm (93 pieces) is now over N1.3 million .
“I don’t know where this country is heading to?”
The shift to bamboo is not without its challenges. Rising bamboo prices, fueled by supply chain disruptions and levies, mirror the broader economic turmoil plaguing the nation.
Yet, despite the hurdles, engineers and developers are forging ahead, determined to navigate the turbulent economic landscape and meet the demands of an ever-changing market.
As builders grapple with the repercussions of skyrocketing material costs, concerns about the structural integrity of bamboo-based constructions loom large.
While some advocate for a blend of bamboo and iron rods to maintain strength and stability, others tout bamboo as a standalone solution for cost-conscious projects.
With each passing day, the construction industry confronts new obstacles, from dwindling profits to mounting logistical challenges.
Yet, amid the chaos, a spirit of innovation thrives, propelling Nigerian engineers to push the boundaries of conventional construction and embrace bamboo as a symbol of resilience in the face of adversity.
