Rapid urbanization in Kaduna, Nigeria, has exacerbated challenges related to construction quality and structural integrity, with building collapses presenting a critical risk to life and property. A predominant factor contributing to structural failure is the widespread use of substandard construction materials, which frequently fail to meet the requirements prescribed by the Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS). This study critically evaluates the compliance of essential building materials (cement, reinforcement steel, and sandcrete blocks) with NIS specifications and examines their resultant influence on structural performance and building failures within Kaduna. The study employed a mixed research design method, experimental research design and interviews. Findings reveal that sandcrete blocks commonly exhibit compressive strengths and bulk densities below minimum thresholds, while reinforcement steel bars often display undersized diameters and compromised tensile capacities. These material deficiencies critically undermine structural reliability, load-bearing capacity and ductility, predisposing buildings to premature structural distress, accelerated deterioration, and catastrophic failure under service and extreme loading conditions. The study recommends the urgent need for stringent regulatory enforcement by the Kaduna State Urban Planning and Development Authority and the Standards Organization of Nigeria, coupled with targeted technical training and quality assurance interventions for local material manufacturers. Implementation of such measures is vital to enhance structural safety, ensure compliance with engineering standards, and mitigate the recurrence of building collapses in Kaduna and similar urban environments.