By Ekweaga Uzoma
The Commissioner for Housing in Anambra State, Architect Henry Arize, has called on the Nigerian Institute of Building, NIOB, Anambra State Chapter, to intensify efforts aimed at advancing the construction industry through continuous training and retraining of workers, particularly unskilled personnel.
Arch. Arize made the appeal on May 2, while receiving members of NIOB on a courtesy visit at the Jerome Udoji Secretariat Complex, Awka.
The Commissioner expressed delight at the large turnout of builders who accompanied the association’s leadership, describing it as a demonstration of their commitment to the growth of the building profession and the development of the state’s construction sector.
He assured NIOB of the ministry’s support and willingness to collaborate with professional bodies to promote best practices in housing and construction. Arch. Arize emphasized the importance of equipping unskilled workers with practical skills through in-house training and short-term certificate programmes, noting that such initiatives would improve productivity, professionalism, and quality assurance on construction sites.
The Commissioner disclosed that since assuming office, he had introduced reforms to enhance efficiency within the ministry. These include upgrading the work environment with essential tools such as laptop computers and standing fans to improve staff productivity and service delivery.
Responding to NIOB’s request for formal inclusion in the ministry’s Production Management and Construction Documentation Framework, Arch. Arize assured members that the ministry would review its existing documents to accommodate the association. He stated that such inclusion would strengthen regulatory oversight and foster the growth of the construction industry in the state.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of NIOB, Anambra State Chapter, Builder Ikenna Opkala, commended the Commissioner for the innovative reforms introduced within a short period in office. He appealed for the inclusion of professional builders in the ministry’s contractors’ documentation, stressing that builders coordinate all activities on construction sites and deserve recognition equal to that of other professionals.
Also speaking, former Chairman of the association, Builder Alex Chukwunwike, welcomed the Commissioner on behalf of the institute. He noted that Arch. Arize is the seventh Commissioner for Housing since the Building Department attained autonomy, and expressed optimism that his administration would strengthen collaboration with professional bodies.
The immediate past Chairman, Builder Kingsley Nweke, explained NIOB’s structured training programmes for individuals without formal building degrees who aspire to become certified professionals. He said the programmes are designed to equip trainees with technical competence, ethical standards, and practical experience required for professional practice.
A highlight of the visit was the presentation of a commemorative plaque to Commissioner Arize by Builder Chukwunwike, in recognition of his commitment to housing development and the promotion of professional growth within the construction sector.
Ekweaga Uzoma is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
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