Builders' Critical Role in Tackling Nigeria's Housing and Urbanisation Crisis
The Nigerian Institution of Builders in Facility Management, Lagos State chapter, has issued a compelling call for enhanced recognition of registered builders in the construction industry. This appeal focuses squarely on addressing the severe housing shortages and rapid urbanisation challenges currently confronting Nigeria. During a detailed media briefing, the Chairman of the Lagos State chapter, Mr Akingbade Adekola, elaborated on the multifaceted justification for involving registered builders in housing administration, management, and maintenance.
Statutory and Technical Foundations
Adekola underscored that, from a statutory perspective, builders are uniquely recognised by Nigerian law as the professionals authorised to manage the physical production of buildings. This legal backing is firmly established through the Builders’ Registration Act and the National Building Code, which explicitly define their responsibilities. On the technical front, builders bring specialised expertise in building production management and building pathology. This knowledge ensures that construction projects are executed with meticulous precision and maintained effectively for long-term durability.
Economically, their application of lifecycle costing and efficient resource management safeguards client investments and contributes significantly to national economic growth. Morally, their steadfast adherence to professional ethics and rigorous on-site supervision serves as the primary defence against catastrophic building collapses, which have plagued the nation.
Addressing Housing Deficits and Urbanisation
As Nigeria continues to grapple with an estimated housing deficit of 15 million units and rapid urban expansion, the role of registered builders is becoming increasingly critical. Adekola argued that integrating builders into every phase of the housing lifecycle—from policy formulation and procurement to actual production and ongoing maintenance—is essential. This comprehensive involvement can ensure a built environment that is safe, sustainable, and capable of supporting citizen welfare and prosperity for generations to come.
He emphasised that the professional builder is not merely a participant in the construction industry but a guardian of built assets. Their work ensures that every structure reflects durability, safety, and progress, especially as the built environment evolves from traditional craft-based methods to a complex, technology-driven industry requiring specialised oversight.
Preventing Building Collapses
On the recurring menace of building collapses, Adekola described the situation as a national emergency. These incidents result in tragic loss of lives, substantial financial losses, and severe damage to the construction industry's reputation. He noted that studies of building collapses across Nigeria, from Lagos to the South-South region, consistently identify common causes:
- Substandard construction materials
- Poor workmanship and inadequate supervision
- Use of unqualified personnel and unlicensed contractors
Unlicensed contractors often cut corners, ignore structural specifications, or use inferior materials to maximise profits, exacerbating risks. Registered builders mitigate these dangers through strict adherence to professional ethics and statutory standards. As faithful agents or trustees of their clients, they have a fiduciary duty to ensure the safety and integrity of every structure.
Their involvement ensures that:
- Soil-bearing capacities are properly considered during design implementation
- Critical structural elements like foundations, beams, and columns are inspected at every construction stage
- Building materials, including cement, reinforcement steel, and blocks, are rigorously tested
- Builders' documentation is used as a control mechanism throughout the entire construction process
Professional Platforms and Future Directions
Adekola highlighted that the involvement of builders, particularly those recognised by the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB) and the Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON), is not just a matter of professional preference. It is a fundamental requirement for ensuring safety, durability, and economic sustainability in the nation's housing stock. NIOB provides a professional platform for these practitioners, promoting the science and practice of building technology, maintenance management, and project management.
The institute's mission is to enable members to deliver sustainable housing solutions through research, development, and the application of global best practices. In Nigeria's context, registered builders bridge the gap between government policy and the technical realities of housing delivery, ensuring that administrative goals are practical, safe, and cost-effective. By championing the role of builders, Nigeria can move toward a future where its built environment supports growth, safety, and prosperity for all citizens.
