Abuja: The Federal Government and the Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON) have emphasized the critical role of newly inducted builders in eradicating quackery and reversing the persistent issue of building collapses in the nation. This message was delivered during the 25th CORBON Induction of New Builders held in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, highlighted the importance of builders’ skills and professionalism as fundamental to ensuring quality construction and structural integrity. Represented by Mr. Mukhtar Umar, Director of Planning Research and Statistics, Dangiwa urged the inductees to uphold quality standards and ethical practices, emphasizing their role in preventing building collapses.
Dangiwa affirmed the Federal Government’s dedication to establishing a robust policy framework that supports the growth of the building profession and the advancement of the built environment. He stated that builders play an essential role in addressing the challenges of infrastructure development in the country.
Dr. Samson Opaluwah, Chairman of CORBON, pointed out the significant challenges the building industry faces due to frequent, preventable building collapses. He emphasized the council’s commitment to regulating the profession and ensuring public safety. Opaluwah encouraged the inductees to adopt global best practices and contribute to the profession’s advancement, particularly through innovations like the Nigerian Gas expansion program for gas reticulation in buildings.
Opaluwah also mentioned the Federal Government’s introduction of two new regulations focused on builders’ practices and health and safety on construction sites. These regulations aim to enhance professional practices and the implementation of the National Building Code.
Mr. Alex Onuegbu, Chairman of the Occasion and CEO of Brunnel, urged the inductees to take their responsibilities seriously, noting that the quality of Nigeria’s housing sector impacts national development and global perception. He stressed the importance of eliminating quacks to prevent building collapses, which are crucial for ensuring safety and boosting tourism potential.
Mr. Adetunji Adeniran, Registrar and Secretary to CORBON, advised the new builders to maintain the profession’s dignity and continue developing their skills to uphold its reputation.
Representing the inductees, Mr. Oshinowo George expressed gratitude to the council and emphasized the induction’s timeliness for fostering innovation in the sector. He stated that the inductees are eager to advance the construction environment by exploring new materials and techniques to improve the industry.