The Enugu State Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB) has raised serious concerns over the increasing incidents of building collapse across Nigeria, urging stricter enforcement of construction regulations and the mandatory engagement of registered professional builders to safeguard lives and property.
The call formed part of a communiqué issued during a press conference held to mark the 2026 Builders’ Week in Enugu. The event, organised by the professional body, focused on the theme: “Advocacy and Policy Influence Towards Sustainable Reforms for a Resilient Built Environment.”
Speaking on behalf of the institute, the Chairman of the Enugu State Chapter, Bldr. Gyok Luka, reaffirmed the institute’s commitment to professionalism and ethical practice within the construction sector.
According to Luka, professional builders play a critical role in ensuring that buildings and infrastructure projects are delivered safely, efficiently and sustainably.
“The Nigerian Institute of Building reiterates its unwavering commitment to promoting professionalism, ethical practice, and best standards in building production management. As custodians of construction management within the building industry, professional builders remain critical to ensuring that buildings and infrastructure are delivered safely, efficiently, and sustainably,” he said.
The institute expressed deep concern about recurring incidents of building collapse reported across different parts of the country, describing them as a major threat to public safety and confidence in the construction industry.
“These unfortunate occurrences continue to pose serious threats to lives, property, and public confidence in the construction industry,” Luka stated.
He noted that investigations into such incidents often reveal common causes including the engagement of unqualified personnel, poor construction management practices, use of substandard building materials and disregard for approved building designs and professional supervision.
Call for Stronger Enforcement of Regulations
The institute called on government regulatory agencies to strengthen monitoring and enforcement mechanisms across all stages of building development.
Luka stressed that the provisions of the National Building Code of Nigeria must be implemented rigorously to ensure compliance with construction standards and safety regulations.
Mandatory Role of Professional Builders
The NIOB also emphasized the need for developers and project owners to engage registered professional builders to supervise construction projects from start to finish.
“Builders are professionally trained to coordinate the building production process, ensuring proper planning, quality control, cost management, and compliance with regulatory standards throughout the construction lifecycle,” Luka explained.
Advocacy for Policy Reforms
In line with the theme of the 2026 Builders’ Week, the institute advocated policy reforms aimed at strengthening institutional frameworks within the construction industry.
It noted that such reforms would enhance accountability, improve collaboration among professionals in the built environment sector and establish clear responsibilities in the building production process.
Promoting Climate-Resilient Infrastructure
The institute also highlighted the growing impact of climate change on infrastructure and urban development, calling for wider adoption of sustainable construction practices.
These include energy-efficient building designs, climate-responsive construction techniques and the use of environmentally responsible materials to enhance the resilience of the built environment.
Collaboration with Government and Stakeholders
Luka reiterated the readiness of the Enugu chapter of the institute to collaborate with the Enugu State Government, regulatory agencies, professional bodies and private sector stakeholders to promote safe and high-quality construction practices.
The institute also pledged to intensify public awareness campaigns to discourage the engagement of unqualified individuals in construction projects while strengthening professional capacity through training and continuous development programmes.
Collective Responsibility
The NIOB stressed that ensuring the safety and sustainability of the built environment requires collective effort from government, developers, professionals and the public.
“The safety and sustainability of the built environment require collective responsibility. Government institutions, developers, professionals, and the general public must work together to uphold standards, enforce regulations, and ensure that construction activities are carried out in accordance with professional and statutory requirements,” Luka said.
He added that the institute remains committed to championing policies, professional standards and innovative practices that will guarantee a safe and resilient built environment for present and future generations.
