Nigerian builders lament incessant building collapse urge collaboration to fight quackery
The Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB) has said it is worried by rampant building collapses in Nigeria, and will seek collaborations to put an end to the menace.
The institute called for collaboration among members to find a lasting solution to the challenge.
A member of the institute, Hamilton Ezeonu, made the call, Wednesday, during the investiture ceremony of the newly sworn-in NIOB President, Bldr Daniel Kolade, in Abuja.
He emphasized the necessity for professionals in the building industry to work together to address these challenges.
He said, “Collaboration within the Nigerian Institute of Building signifies a strategic approach to unify architects, builders, engineers, and other stakeholders, who can contribute diverse expertise and insights to create more robust construction practices.
“By initiating a collaborative environment, members can share experiences, lessons learnt from past projects, and innovative building techniques.
“This exchange of knowledge can lead to the adoption of best practices that promote the quality and safety of construction projects.
“A unified body can effectively advocate for stronger building codes and regulations. By presenting a collective voice, professionals can push for policy changes that promote safety and accountability within the construction industry.
“Again, there is dire need for organization of workshops, seminars, and training programs focusing on the latest construction technologies, safety standards, and risk management strategies.
“Continued education can help ensure that all practitioners are up-to-date with the necessary skills and knowledge to prevent building failures,” Ezeonu said.
Earlier in his acceptance speech after his investiture as the 23rd President of the Institute, Daniel Abimbola Kolade, announced his plan to initiate an intensive programme designed to enhance capacity development of professionals in the building sector.
Chairman of the occasion, and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Gida Mustapha, in his own speech, blamed building collapse on individuals who want to undertake several task even when they have little knowledge of it.
He said, “The problem in the building industry is that one person wants to do everything. An architect wants to be an engineer; a civil engineer wants to be an architect, and a surveyor wants to do it all. That is not right.”
