Amidst rising inflation in Nigeria, the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB) has called for the adoption of alternative construction materials and methods, challenging the conventional approach to housing development, particularly for low- and middle-income earners.
The institute emphasized the importance of engaging certified professional builders throughout the construction process to address housing development challenges, including the critical issue of building collapses.
Speaking at the opening of the 54th Builders’ Conference and Annual General Meeting in Akwa, NIOB President Alderton Ewa highlighted the conference’s theme, “Building Profession Practices and Sustainable National Development,” as a reflection of the institute’s commitment to tackling the significant challenges facing Nigeria’s built environment.
Ewa acknowledged the ongoing economic difficulties and infrastructure inadequacies in the sector but pointed out opportunities for growth and innovation. He urged stakeholders to leverage new technologies and foster collaboration to advance the building industry.
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Ewa stressed the need to prioritize sustainable materials, affordable housing, and regular updates to building codes to reflect advancements in construction technology. He also called for strict adherence to regulations by practitioners to prevent structural failures and enhance overall safety.
The conference served as a platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and professional development. “Our objective is to foster a meaningful dialogue on enhancing building practices to contribute significantly to sustainable national development,” Ewa stated.
He urged leaders to involve professional builders in all construction projects, asserting that their expertise is crucial for achieving sustainable housing development and delivering cost-effective, purpose-driven buildings.
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The NIOB commended the Ebonyi State government for enacting three key laws aimed at regulating the growth of the built environment: the Ebonyi State Physical Planning Permit Regulations Law, 2024, the Ebonyi State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law, 2024, and the Ebonyi State Building Control Regulation Law, 2024.
The institute encouraged other state governments to enact similar legislation and establish building control agencies staffed with qualified professionals to address sector challenges and promote sustainable growth in the building industry.