Abuja: The Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB) has advised building professionals to keep up with government policies and new tax changes so they can stay relevant in the changing construction industry. Its Chairman, FCT Chapter, Mr. John Zaki, made the call during the institute’s Annual General Meeting and Conference on Tuesday in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Zaki emphasized that the theme of the conference, ‘Fiscal Policy and the Built Environment: Decoding the Tax Reform Act for Sustainable Construction and Housing Delivery,’ was chosen to inform builders about ongoing reforms. He highlighted the importance of staying informed about government policies to maintain relevance in the industry.
Zaki addressed the challenges facing the construction sector, including regulatory compliance, tax reforms, sustainable practices, and technological advancement. Despite incidents of building collapse, accountability remains a concern, with few responsible parties being held accountable.
He stressed the need for stronger regulatory enforcement and accountability to reduce malpractice in the sector. Identifying and sanctioning those responsible for construction site failures is vital to deter malpractice and reinforce the rule of law.
Reflecting on the chapter’s past activities, Zaki noted progress in mentorship, advocacy, and partnerships with stakeholders, including regulatory bodies and educational institutions. He encouraged senior professionals to mentor younger builders, emphasizing the importance of knowledge transfer for sustaining industry standards.
Expressing optimism about the profession’s future, Zaki urged members to embrace continuous learning, innovation, and collaboration. He asserted that the institute’s strength lies in unity, professionalism, and a shared commitment to advancing building practices in Nigeria.
The Special Guest of Honour, Atika Mamman, Executive Director of Projects, North-Central Development Commission (NCDC), commended the builders’ efforts in developing the country and addressing housing needs. Mamman encouraged builders to remain focused on improving Nigeria for all.
Queen Philips, the Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners, FCT chapter, addressed the issue of multiple taxation on building materials, permits, and land transactions, which has increased construction costs. She advocated for streamlining these processes to ease the burden on developers and prospective homeowners.
Philips proposed several policy pathways, including tax incentives for affordable housing, support for public-private partnerships, and strengthened property taxation systems. She also called for incentives for green building practices, climate-resilient infrastructure, and smart urban development, emphasizing the need for synergy among government, professional bodies, and private sector stakeholders to ensure reforms deliver inclusive and sustainable outcomes.