The Director-General of the Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute, Samson Duna, has reaffirmed his commitment to tackling the recurring issue of building collapses in Nigeria while also working towards making affordable housing accessible to millions.
Speaking during a thanksgiving service in Abuja to mark his reappointment by President Bola Tinubu, Duna expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to continue leading the institute. His reappointment, coming after a successful first tenure that began in 2020, signals the government’s trust in his leadership and vision for Nigeria’s construction sector.
Outlining his agenda for the next four years, Duna assured Nigerians that under his watch, the institute would ramp up research and technological advancements aimed at strengthening infrastructure durability. He emphasized that building collapses, which have become an all-too-frequent tragedy in the country, could be significantly reduced through strict adherence to quality standards and innovative research. His plan includes setting up state-of-the-art laboratories to test and enhance construction materials, ensuring that only the best materials are used in building projects.
The NBRRI chief also vowed to improve staff welfare, recognizing that a motivated workforce is crucial in driving innovation and excellence. Beyond tackling substandard construction practices, he is determined to address the financial bottlenecks that hinder housing development. His strategy involves advocating for increased funding for housing projects while also pushing for research-driven solutions that could make homeownership more affordable for low-income Nigerians. He believes that by prioritizing implementable research, the nation’s construction industry will experience a transformation that benefits both builders and homeowners.
Duna’s leadership has earned him commendation from key government figures, including the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Geoffrey Nnaji, who praised him for his remarkable achievements in his first term. According to Nnaji, the reappointment was a reflection of the president’s commitment to putting the right people in positions that drive national progress. He described Duna as a man of competence and trustworthiness whose work has earned him respect across multiple sectors.
Adding to the accolades, NBRRI’s Director of Consultancy and Extension Services, Daniel Makava, highlighted some of the groundbreaking advancements made under Duna’s leadership. These include the introduction of modern testing laboratories for construction materials such as steel and bitumen, as well as innovative projects like the conversion of plastic waste into road construction materials. Such initiatives, Makava noted, have not only promoted sustainability in Nigeria’s construction sector but have also positioned NBRRI as a research powerhouse.
Beyond research, the institute has also strengthened partnerships with academic institutions, providing students with opportunities for internships and joint research programs. This move is aimed at bridging the knowledge gap in the sector, ensuring that the next generation of engineers and builders are well-equipped to uphold high construction standards.
During the thanksgiving service, Rev. Ogidi Dickson, the host pastor, delivered a sermon urging the congregation to remain steadfast in their faith, even in difficult times. His words resonated with many, serving as a reminder that resilience and unwavering dedication are key in overcoming challenges.
The event was attended by notable dignitaries, including Senator Anthony Yaro and Representative Obed Shehu, among others. Their presence underscored the significance of Duna’s reappointment and the expectations that come with it. With a renewed mandate, Duna now faces the task of turning promises into tangible results, ensuring that Nigeria moves toward a future where building collapses become a thing of the past and affordable housing is no longer a luxury but a reality for all.
