THE INFLUENCE OF INFORMAL SECTOR ON BUILDINGS COLLAPSE AND FAILURES IN CALABAR METROPOLIS

ABSTRACT Building collapse and structural failure have become pressing concerns in CalabarMetropolis,largely attributed to the proliferation of informal sector activities within theconstruction industry. This study explores the influence of the informal sector on buildingcollapse and failure, examining how non-compliance with construction standards, use ofsubstandard materials,and unregulated practices contribute to these incidents. The research is anchored on three theoretical frameworks: Pelling's (2003) StructuralVulnerability Theory,which examines how social and economic vulnerabilities heightenrisks; Ostrom's (2009) Socioecological System Theory,which emphasizes the interplayBuilding Safety Framework by UN-Habitat (2016),which highlights the role ofregulatory governance in ensuring construction quality and safety. These frameworkscollectively guide the analysis of the informal sector's impact on structural integrity andurban resilience. The study hypothesizes that the activities of the informal sector significantly increasetheoccurrence of building collapse and failure in Calabar Metropolis. A descriptive surveyresearch design was employed, focusing on Calabar Metropolis, a key urban area inCross River State, Nigeria, experiencing rapid urbanization and diverse constructionactivities .The population for this study comprises 117 masons, including both males and females,actively involved in construction activities within the metropolis. Stratified sampling wasused to categorize respondents based on experience levels and gender, while purposefulsampling identified individuals directly involved in informal construction practices This study aims to provide insights into the challenges posed by the informal sector andoffer recommendations to enhance regulatory compliance, governance frameworks, andbuilding safety standards in Calabar Metropolis. vil