The Nigerian Institute of Building has called on the State Governors across the Federation to take a clue from the ‘exemplary efforts’ being made by the Bldr. Francis Nwifuru-led government of Ebonyi State, adding that through strategic legislations, the Nwifuru administration has ensured orderly infrastructural development of the State.
President of the Institute, Bldr Alderton Ewa Ewa who gave the commendation of Wednesday at the Opening Ceremony of the 54th Builders’ Conference and Annual General Meeting tagged ‘Akwa 2024,’ in Akwa, Anambra State, expressed gratitude to the governor for approving three laws he said will pave way for the systematic and orderly growth of the built environment in Ebonyi State.
‘The Nigerian Institute of Building strongly urges all other State Governments to pass such legislations and establish building control agencies staffed by the appropriate professionals,’ he said, adding that by approving Ebonyi State Physical Planning Permit Regulations Law, 2024; the Ebonyi State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law, 2024; and Ebonyi State Building Control Regulation Law, 2024, Governor Nwifuru created a legacy of orderly infrastructural development of Ebonyi State.
Discussing the theme of the ongoing 54th General Meeting of the institute, which is, ‘Building Professional Practices and Sustainable National Development,’ the president said it underscores the commitment of the Institute to addressing the critical challenges facing the country’s built environment, adding that Awka, the heart of Anambra State, is an apt location for the conference.
‘Known for its entrepreneurial spirit and rich cultural heritage, Anambra embodies the resilience and innovation that defines our industry,’ he said, adding that the Nigerian Institute of Building through research, development, and collaboration with stakeholders, has consistently championed the delivery of sustainable shelter that meets the nation’s housing needs. ‘Our members spread across the country, are at the forefront of driving positive change in the construction sector,’ he added.
While saying that the conference presents a unique opportunity for knowledge sharing, networking, and professional development, he assured that the coming days of the conference will be even more engaging, stating: ‘We have assembled a distinguished group of experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the building profession.’
He explained that the goal of the Institute is to foster robust dialogue on how professionals can enhance building practices to contribute meaningfully to sustainable national development.
According to the president, the quest to explore the vitality of alternative building materials for sustainable national development has become very important, adding that Research and Development in Building Practice for Sustainable National Development is one of the set goals of the Institute.
While saying that emerging technologies in building practice must be embraced for sustainable national development, Bldr. Alderton Ewa Ewa pointed out that professional builders have a crucial role to play in deploying skills for sustainable national development.
Ewa Ewa called for effective implementation of physical planning and development control and building control agency/laws for sustainable national development.
He stated: ‘The 54th Annual General Meeting of the Institute of Building is an opportunity to deliberate on wide ranging issues confronting the building profession through which a rich communiqué beneficial to stakeholders, policy makers, captains of industries and our members will be developed in order to provide professional excellence and leadership for sustainable shelter.’
‘I am convinced that the week-long National Conference/Annual General Meeting will in a way act as a tonic to our fatigue often associated with the monotonous routine daily work and avail us a veritable ground to discuss in a relaxed manner, the challenges and advantages ingrained in building professional practices for Sustainable National Development, explore, unwind and enjoy the unique serene ambiance of Awka City.’
‘Professional builders are the ultimate panacea to challenges of sustainable housing development in Nigeria. We are experts when it comes to building of any form, we build rightly and we have the technical know-how to deliver purpose-driven buildings that are affordable and sustainable to all and sundry,’ he added.
He called on ‘all the tiers of government and the citizenry in Nigeria to
patronise certified professional builders in every stage of housing development,’ adding that it will avert the hazards replete in engaging quacks.
