GOVERNOR NWIFURU CALLS FOR LEGISLATIVE PROTECTION OF BUILDING PROFESSION AT NIOB CONFERENCE IN AWKA

By Ukpa Ewa :

The Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru has expressed concerns over the challenges facing the building profession in Nigeria, emphasizing the need for legislative action to protect the integrity of the field.

Speaking at the 54th Annual Conference and General Meeting of the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB) in Awka, Anambra State via a telephone call, Governor Ogbonaya noted that the encroachment of other professions into building practices has contributed to frequent building collapses.

He urged the leadership of the institute to lobby the National Assembly to criminalize non-builders undertaking building projects.

Builder Nwifuru highlighted the importance of builders in ensuring safe and sustainable construction, arguing that the profession should not be overshadowed by others.

He also called for better urban planning and the establishment of building codes in all states, urging builders to engage with state governments to ensure their expertise is fully recognized and utilized.

In his remarks, Anambra State Governor, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, represented by the Commissioner for Ministry of Housing, Mr. Pauly Onyeka, praised the NIOB for its efforts to professionalize the building industry.

He recounted steps taken by his administration to elevate the role of builders within the state, including the creation of a dedicated department for building construction and maintenance within the Ministry of Housing.

In his address, the NIOB National President, Builder Alderton Ewa Ewa, emphasized the conference’s theme: “Building Profession Practices and Sustainable National Development,” underscoring the institute’s commitment to addressing the critical challenges in Nigeria’s building environment.

He called on the government and citizens to prioritize the engagement of certified professional builders to ensure the delivery of safe and sustainable housing.

The conference, which included the investiture of new fellows and members, attracted over 5,000 delegates and notable dignitaries. It provided a platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and discussions on the future of the building profession in Nigeria.

In attendance were, Past Presidents of the Institute, Board of Directors including the representative of Ebonyi State Governor, Prof Grace Umezurike Secretary to the State Government (SSG), His Royal Majesty Igwe Ralph Obumnemeh Ekpe, Obu Enugwu- Ukwu na Umunri, Builder Samson Opaluwah, Chairman Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON) and other dignitaries.