The Nigerian Institute of Building’s Call for Professionalism in the Construction Industry to Curb Building Collapses
The Nigerian construction industry has been plagued by a recurring problem: building collapses. These devastating incidents not only result in tragic loss of life and property but also erode public trust in the sector. The Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB), Lagos Chapter, has identified a key factor contributing to this crisis: the engagement of unqualified professionals. During a press briefing announcing the 2025 Builders’ Week, themed "Builders’ Role in Effective Building Control and Regulatory Compliance for Sustainable Construction," the Chairman of NIOB, Lagos Chapter, Thomas Adeoye, emphasized the crucial role of registered builders in ensuring safe and sustainable construction practices. He argued that the prevalence of building collapses, substandard construction, and regulatory non-compliance is largely attributable to the involvement of unqualified individuals in building projects.
Adeoye stressed that a structure’s strength is directly linked to the expertise of those involved in its construction, making the role of professional builders non-negotiable. He highlighted Builders’ Week as a platform to reaffirm the institute’s commitment to professionalism, safety, and sustainability in the construction industry. This annual event serves as a crucial forum to discuss and address critical issues affecting the built environment. A central theme of the briefing was the importance of a well-regulated construction industry, characterized by strict adherence to building control measures and existing regulations. Professional builders, according to Adeoye, play a pivotal role in ensuring projects adhere to approved designs, specifications, and construction standards.
The Chairman further elaborated on the critical responsibilities of professional builders, emphasizing their role in ensuring the use of quality materials, adherence to best practices throughout the construction process, compliance with regulatory frameworks (including the National Building Code and state-specific regulations), and strict adherence to safety protocols to prevent structural failures. He lamented the disregard for these principles, which has resulted in the proliferation of substandard buildings and tragic consequences. Adeoye underscored that the solution lies in prioritizing the engagement of certified and registered builders equipped with the necessary training, experience, and professional accountability to deliver safe and sustainable structures.
The NIOB remains committed to promoting competency, ethical practice, and regulatory compliance within the building industry. In collaboration with relevant agencies such as the Lagos State Building Control Agency, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria, and other regulatory bodies, the institute is actively advocating for enhanced regulatory measures. These include stricter enforcement of building control regulations to eliminate quackery and substandard construction, mandatory involvement of professional builders in all stages of construction projects, continuous professional development and certification programs to enhance capacity in modern construction techniques, and public awareness campaigns on the importance of engaging qualified builders.
The NIOB firmly believes that these concerted efforts will not only safeguard lives and investments but also contribute to the development of a more robust and sustainable construction industry in Nigeria. The engagement of qualified professionals, adherence to regulations, and continuous professional development are crucial steps towards ensuring the safety and quality of buildings in the country. By promoting these principles, the NIOB aims to create a built environment that prioritizes the well-being of its occupants and the long-term sustainability of the construction sector.
The institute’s call for professionalism and regulatory compliance is a timely response to the challenges facing the Nigerian construction industry. By emphasizing the critical role of qualified builders and advocating for stricter enforcement of building codes, the NIOB is working towards a future where building collapses become a thing of the past. This, in turn, will foster greater public confidence in the industry and pave the way for a more sustainable and resilient built environment in Nigeria. The 2025 Builders’ Week serves as a vital platform to further discuss and implement these crucial strategies, bringing together stakeholders to collectively address the pressing issues affecting the construction sector and chart a course towards a safer and more sustainable future.
