Anambra Government Calls for End to Quackery in Construction
The Anambra State Government has issued a strong appeal to experts and stakeholders in the construction sector to uphold professional standards and eradicate quackery in the building industry. Chijioke Ojukwu, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, made this call during a meeting with professional bodies and industry stakeholders in Awka on Thursday.
The meeting brought together representatives from key organizations including the Nigerian Institute of Builders, the Nigerian Institute of Architects, the Nigerian Society of Structural Engineers, the Nigerian Society of Engineers, and the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP), among others. Mr. Ojukwu emphasized that qualified professionals are essential for the effective implementation of physical planning and urban development policies.
Sustainable Urban Growth Requires Certified Practitioners
According to the commissioner, sustainable and orderly urban growth can only be achieved through the active involvement of competent, duly certified practitioners. He stressed that the government is committed to ensuring that only licensed professionals operate in the state, which would promote accountability, improve construction standards, and better safeguard lives and property.
Mr. Ojukwu expressed deep concern about the rising number of unqualified individuals operating in the industry. “Such individuals often infiltrate critical stages of the building construction value chain and secure contracts despite lacking the requisite qualifications,” he said. “This is partly responsible for structural failures and other avoidable incidents within the sector.”
Coordinated Regulatory Framework Needed
The commissioner called for a more coordinated regulatory framework and enhanced enforcement mechanisms to ensure that only licensed professionals may practice in the state. He noted that these measures would help eliminate ambiguity and close loopholes that may encourage corrupt practices.
To further strengthen the sector, the ministry is introducing a more transparent and accountable assessment process for government development levies. “This initiative is intended to eliminate ambiguity and close loopholes that may encourage corrupt practices,” the commissioner added.
Stakeholders Applaud Engagement
Stakeholders at the meeting expressed support for the government's efforts. Okey Nwosu, Chairman of the Nigerian Society of Structural Engineers (NSSE), Onitsha Chapter, described the engagement as timely and productive. He noted that the forum provided stakeholders with a platform to discuss practical measures to sanitize the sector and prevent unqualified practitioners from operating within the system.
Emma Ifemedebe, a former chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners, reinforced this sentiment, stating that proper planning is the foundation of development control. He emphasized that development must be preceded by comprehensive planning to ensure that structures are situated in suitable locations.
