The spotlight shone brightly on Dr. Samson Ameh Opaluwah, the Chairman of the Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON), as he celebrated his 70th birthday with a remarkable book launch event in Abuja.
Held amidst friends, colleagues, and dignitaries from various sectors, the occasion marked not just a milestone in his life but also his enduring legacy in facility management and public service in Nigeria.
Dr. Opaluwah, a titan in the fields of building, engineering, and facility management, used the event to unveil three books that encapsulate his extensive professional experience and contributions to national development. The celebration was also a platform for attendees to honor a man whose intellectual and professional influence has spanned decades and sectors.
The atmosphere was one of admiration as speakers took turns lauding his contributions. Described as a “colossus” and a “giant by all standards,” Dr. Opaluwah was praised not only for his academic achievements but also for his impact on Nigeria’s infrastructure and facility management sectors. One speaker notably remarked, “This is a man that presidents should headhunt to carry out reforms in countries that need to progress from one level to another.”
Dr. Opaluwah’s extensive professional journey began in 1989, when he was appointed as Estate Maintenance Manager of Benue Cement Company, now Dangote Cement. His career in facility management extended to managing complex infrastructure, utility services, and housing estates, a role that prepared him for greater responsibilities at the National Hospital in Abuja. In 1999, he became the pioneer Director of Maintenance at the hospital, a prestigious role that saw him overseeing Nigeria’s most sophisticated healthcare facility.
During his time in public service, Dr. Opaluwah held various senior positions, including in the Ministry of Health, where he managed facilities for over 100 federal hospitals across the country. His experience also includes a significant role in the 8th All-Africa Games in 2003, where he was the Deputy Director of Sports Facilities and Development. His expertise in facility management continued to influence major national projects, such as reforms initiated by former FCT Minister, Mallam Nasiru El-Rufai, aimed at improving the Federal Capital Territory’s maintenance culture.
The book launch showcased not only his vast experience but also his generosity in sharing knowledge. Dr. Opaluwah’s books, which explore facility management in various sectors including healthcare, sports, and public infrastructure, are already being hailed as must-reads for professionals in the field.
In his emotional speech, Dr. Opaluwah credited God, his family, and Nigeria for his achievements. He reflected on his journey from his humble beginnings in public schools to studying in prestigious institutions like Leeds University. “What you are seeing today is a product of the grace of God,” he said, emphasizing his gratitude for the opportunities Nigeria provided him in education and service.
Dr. Opaluwah’s wife, who has been his pillar of support for over 44 years, was also acknowledged during the event. In his heartfelt tribute, Dr. Opaluwah noted her sacrifices in managing their home while he traversed the globe for work. Their five children and extended family were present, making the occasion a true family affair.
The event drew high-profile guests, including representatives from the Nigerian Institute of Building, Nigerian Society of Engineers, and the Nigerian Academy of Engineering, among others. Attendees underscored Dr. Opaluwah’s exceptional leadership and the lasting impact he has had on Nigeria’s built environment and facility management.
Dr. Opaluwah remains committed to improving society. “As long as I live,” he vowed, “I will continue to do my best to improve the lot of humanity and this country.” His legacy, immortalized in his books, will undoubtedly serve as a guide for future generations of professionals.
The title of the books launched are Health facilities management in Africa, Sports facilities Management in Africa, The Principles and Practice of facility management in Nigeria.
The launch of his books, alongside the celebration of his 70th birthday, marked a fitting tribute to a man whose influence has touched many sectors in Nigeria and beyond.