Real Estate Constructions Must Follow Integrity-driven Process – NIOB President

•         Expresses optimism about quick passage of National Building Code Enforcement Law

By: Femi Esan

The President of the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB), Bldr Prof. Yohana Izam has emphasized the institute’s interest in ensuring that all real estate constructions in the country are done in compliance with integrity-driven processes which is hinged on effective planning and design.

He made this known during a press briefing at its Federal Capital Territory (FCT) chapter secretariat, one of the activities to commemorate the institute’s 3^rd Builders’ Day celebration. 

According to Izam, innovative building and construction control must go beyond cosmetic enforcement of codes and regulations while leveraging on distinguished roles of professional actors in building project delivery. 

He attributed the cause of building collapse in the country to what he described as invasion of the national building industry space by the activities of quacks, use of substandard materials and components, and inadequacy of regulatory frameworks for building development in the country.

Reacting to the Real Estate Development Bill which was recently rejected by the House of Representatives, the NIOB boss noted that the content of the bill should be critically reviewed, noting that a larger chunk of private real estate developers only invests to maximize profit and most times do not care about quality service delivery.

While condemning the quality of some recent real estate constructions in the country, he noted that the institute is majorly concerned about the practical aspect of the bill, which centers on how well real estate projects are carried out.

Speaking on the other side of the bill that has to do with funds sourcing for estate development and financial crimes, Izam said that the transparency of the sources of funding must be looked into by both political and economic experts.

“The estate industry should not be used for money laundering activities and if there are laws that can create for transparency in the funding of real estate in Nigeria, I think we support it as Nigerians; but most importantly, we will want to see also, the bill speaks to the issue of quality and integrity-driven process in the production of real estate. That is what will address the welfare issues of Nigerians”, he said.

While commending the Government for its support and collaboration since the establishment of the institute, he also expressed optimism about the quick passage of the of the National Building Code Enforcement Law, which according to him would help revamp the built industry.