By: Tijani Salako.
The Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB) has urged regulatory authorities to ensure strict enforcement of building control laws in the country.
The Chairman of the Lagos Chapter of the institute, Mr Thomas Adeoye, gave the charge at the 2025 builders’ week session, tagged: “Builders’ Role in Effective Building Control and Regulatory Compliance for Sustainable Construction”, organised by the chapter at the Ejigbo Local Council Development Area, Lagos.
The forum attracted the Chairman of Ejigbo LCDA, Monsurudeen Oloyede Bello, who was represented by the Head of the Department of Works and Infrastructure, Mr Bankole Haroun, other officials of the council, NIOB Lagos officials such as Akingbade Israel, past chairman of the chapter, Mr Sunday Wusu.
Adeoye said strong enforcement by authorities will eliminate quackery and substandard construction in the building sector. He pointed out that the yearly event provides an opportunity to reaffirm commitment to professionalism, safety, and sustainability in the construction industry while addressing critical issues affecting the built environment.
Standard Times noted that this year’s theme underscores the importance of engaging professional and registered builders in construction activities. The challenges facing the construction sector, particularly incidents of building collapse, substandard construction, and regulatory non-compliance, he highlighted, are largely due to the engagement of unqualified individuals in building projects.
“A structure is only as strong as the expertise behind its construction, and the role of the professional builder is non-negotiable in ensuring safety, durability, and compliance with standards. A well-regulated construction industry requires strict adherence to building control measures and compliance with established regulations.
“Professional builders play a pivotal role in this regard by ensuring that building projects adhere to approved designs, specifications, and construction standards, as well as quality materials and best practices are employed at every stage of construction,” he said.
He explained that projects need to comply with regulatory frameworks, including the National Building Code and state-specific building regulations, while safety protocols are strictly followed to prevent structural failures and loss of lives.
Regrettably, Adeoye said, the disregard for these principles has resulted in the proliferation of substandard buildings, leading to tragic consequences. However, he emphasised that the solution lies in prioritising the engagement of certified and registered builders who possess the requisite training, experience, and professional accountability to deliver safe and sustainable structures.
“As the professional body responsible for the advancement of the building industry, NIOB remains committed to promoting competency, ethical practice, and regulatory compliance. In collaboration with relevant agencies such as the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), and other regulatory bodies, we continue to advocate for the mandatory involvement of professional builders in all construction projects, from inception to completion, continuous professional development and certification to enhance capacity in modern construction techniques.”
He also stressed the need for public enlightenment on the importance of engaging qualified builders to safeguard lives and investments and collaborative efforts in ensuring compliance with building regulations.
Adeoye urged enforcement of the National Building Code and stiffer penalties for violations. “The temptation to cut costs by engaging unqualified builders is a dangerous gamble. A certified professional is not an option, it is a necessity.”
He called on prospective homeowners to always verify the qualifications of their builders. “Insist on working with registered professionals to guarantee safety and quality. We must uphold the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and continuous learning in the discharge of our duties,” he said.
The integrity of the built environment, he argued, depends on the expertise and professionalism of those who construct it, hence must all work together to ensure that only competent, licensed builders handle construction projects to reduce the risks of structural failures and enhance the sustainability of cities.
Also speaking, the Secretary of the institute, Mr Gbaja-Biamila Mubarak, disclosed that Builder’s Week was established to commemorate the loss of lives in various building collapses and to appreciate professionalism in the building sector, particularly builders, who are backed by Act (Cap 13) of the law of the Federal Government to practice building production and its management.
He believed that once Nigerians engage a certified builder for projects, they can be assured of successful buildings that are not susceptible to collapse.
