The Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria has urged the National Assembly to commence a review process on the amendment of the Builders Registration Act to ensure that only qualified and content professionals contribute to the nation’s growth.
The Chairman of CORBON, Dr Samson Opaluwa, made the call at the 23rd Induction Ceremony for the newly registered builders for the construction industry in Abuja recently.
He added, “We recognise the need for a comprehensive review and amendment of the Builders Registration Act by the National Assembly and have taken steps in that direction. This legislative endeavour aims to enhance our regulatory capabilities, curb quackery in the building industry, and ensure that only qualified and content professionals contribute to the growth of our nation in this sector.”
The country has been struggling with frequent building collapse challenges.
According to the Building Collapse Prevention Guild, Nigeria witnessed a total of 553 building collapses between 1974 and ending on April 13, 2023.
On December 22, a storey building collapsed in Ebute Meta area of Lagos.
Opaluwah stated that building is a global industry, and the council was working diligently to ensure that standards align with current international best practices.
He said, “The practice of building is a global industry and the council is strenuously working to ensure that our standards comply with the current and international best practices thus benchmarking our qualifications internationally.
“This initiative is aimed at aligning our practices with global best practices and standards, fostering innovation, and positioning the Registered Builders as a player towards meeting the global skills’ requirement.
“The theme that resonates profoundly with us today is the imperative for professionalism as well as a dedication to the principles that underpin safe and sustainable construction practices.
The construction industry is not merely about erecting structures; it is about building the foundations of a safer, resilient, and prosperous society. As registered builders, you are entrusted with a responsibility that goes beyond blocks and mortar; you are also the guardians of public safety in buildings.”
The council chairman further noted the need to review the council registration act to address the skill gaps by encouraging interest in technical and vocational education which would stimulate patronage of indigenous manpower.
In his keynote address, the Governor of Ebonyi State emphasised the need for strict adherence to the code of ethics of the building profession to ensure the safety, resilience, and sustainability of communities.
The governor, who was represented by the deputy, Patricia Obila, said integrity, continuous professional development, and client relationship management were the hallmarks of professional builders.
She said, “The incessant occurrence of building collapse is at the core of a challenge to sustainability in the built environment in the nation today. It is a pressing concern that has caused significant loss of lives, property, and economic resources. As builders, you bear a great responsibility in ensuring the safety, durability, and sustainability of the structures you create.
“As you embark on this journey as registered builders, remember that you are not just constructing buildings. Uphold the highest standards of professionalism, be vigilant in ensuring building integrity, and play your part in curbing building collapse in Nigeria.”
The PUNCH reports that 420 members were inducted, of which 42 were females.
The chairman of the institute disclosed the number this year’s inductees, which was the highest since its inception in 1989, was a testament to the growth of the profession and a reflection of its increasing importance and the demand for skilled and ethical builders in the country.
