The Federal Government is poised to introduce a significant regulatory framework aimed at enhancing safety standards and professional integrity within Nigeria’s built environment sector. This initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, seeks to address critical issues such as building collapses, professional quackery, and non-compliance with building codes, ultimately unlocking the sector’s full potential to contribute to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Engr. Muttaqha Rabe Darma, articulated this vision during a courtesy visit from the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) led by its President, Prof. Sadiq Zubair Abubakar. The Minister underscored the pivotal role of engineers and other professional bodies in achieving the nation’s housing and infrastructure objectives, emphasizing that robust regulation is a non-negotiable prerequisite for sustainable development. “Before I leave this office, we must regulate the industry. It is one of the landmark achievements that I have set my mind on doing,” Engr. Darma declared, signalling a firm commitment to this transformative agenda.
The Ministry is scheduled to present a draft policy framework for stakeholder consultation later this month. This framework is designed to foster a coordinated approach involving all professional stakeholders, ensuring adherence to established building codes and professional ethics. The Minister stressed the urgency of tackling the prevalence of unqualified practitioners, stating, “There must be certain codes that all of us are responsible to follow and obey. We cannot have an industry as big as what we have and quacks are controlling it.” This policy is slated for submission to the Federal Executive Council for final approval following stakeholder input.
COREN, a key partner in this endeavour, expressed its support and confidence in the Minister’s leadership. Prof. Abubakar highlighted the significance of the Ministry as an engineering-based institution and extended an invitation to the Minister to attend the 34th Engineering Assembly. This annual gathering, expected to draw between 8,000 and 9,000 professionals, will adopt a hybrid format this year, accommodating both physical and virtual participation. The Assembly’s theme, focusing on public safety, regulation, compliance, and enforcement, directly aligns with the Ministry’s regulatory objectives. The Minister of Housing and Urban Development traditionally co-pilots this assembly alongside the Minister of Works, underscoring the collaborative spirit required to elevate industry standards.
This regulatory push is of paramount importance to legal professionals, compliance officers, general counsel, investors, and corporate executives. The impending framework promises to create a more predictable and secure operating environment, mitigate risks associated with substandard construction, and enhance investor confidence. For businesses and professionals within the built environment, understanding and adhering to the new regulations will be crucial for maintaining compliance, safeguarding reputations, and capitalising on the sector’s growth potential.
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