The Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON) has inducted 329 new members into the building profession, emphasising the need for professionalism and an end to quackery and building collapses.

The event, which marked the 35th anniversary and 24th induction of new builders, took place on Thursday in Abuja.

CORBON chairman, Samson Opaluwah, commended the inductees for successfully completing the rigorous registration process and being deemed competent to practice as builders under the Registration Act Cap B13LFN 2004.

He noted the increasing incidents of building collapses in Nigeria, stressing the importance of addressing this issue to prevent further loss of life and property damage.

Mr Opaluwah highlighted CORBON’s efforts to engage state governments in ensuring that building plans and approvals were monitored to ensure projects meet required standards and specifications.

“We must work together to prevent such tragedies and ensure that our buildings are safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing,” he said.

He also urged the new inductees to uphold the values of the profession and strive for excellence, acknowledging that their actions will have a lasting impact on the nation.

He pointed out that inadequate housing and non-adherence to standards remained major challenges in the building sector, contributing to the rise in building collapses.

To address these issues, Mr Opaluwah mentioned CORBON’s partnerships with the Nigerian Oil and Gas Expansion Programme to promote gas reticulation in buildings, as well as efforts to increase university accreditations.

He added it would also enhance artisan training through the National Skills Qualification Framework.

“Today, we have inducted 329 builders, and that means at least one builder will now be available in half of Nigeria’s local governments,” he said.

Guest Speaker, Oluyinka Olumide, commissioner for physical planning and urban development in Lagos, urged the inductees to avoid cutting corners due to financial pressure.

He further emphasised the importance of adhering to professional regulations and maintaining a clean record in the fight against building collapses.

Mohammed Mainoma, the special guest of honour and first president of the Association of Professional Bodies of Nigeria, encouraged the inductees to be focused, ethical, disciplined, and network with others in the profession.

“You are now leaders,” he stated.

CORBON registrar and secretary, Adetunji Adeniran, reminded the inductees of the trust placed in them and the responsibility to maintain the ethics and ethos of the profession.

“Your contributions to the built environment must be safe and sustainable,” he said.

Responding on behalf of the inductees, Ayeni Olumayowa expressed gratitude to CORBON and promised that they would serve with integrity, passion, and leadership, ensuring trust and excellence in service delivery. 

(NAN)