Quakery is the biggest threat to Nigeria’s building industry

From Aniekan Aniekan, Calabar

Bldr Alderton Ewa, the National President of the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB), says quackery remains the biggest threat to the building industry in Nigeria.

Bldr Ewa disclosed this in Calabar during an address to mark the 2025 Builders Day.

This year’s Builders Day is themed: ‘Builders’ Role in Effective Building Control and Regulatory Compliance for Sustainable Construction’.

The national president, whose address was presented by the Cross River State Chapter Chairman, Bldr Dr Peter Ojeka, said professional builders will stand firm against this menace.

‘Quackery remains one of the biggest threats to the building industry.

‘Untrained and unlicensed individuals continue to infiltrate the profession, carrying out substandard work that leads to structural defects and, in the worst cases, deadly collapses.

‘These unqualified individuals operate without a proper understanding of engineering principles, safety measures, or building codes, jeopardising the safety of countless individuals.

‘As professional builders, we must stand firm against this, ensure that only qualified and certified professionals handle construction projects, and collaborate with regulatory authorities to enforce strict licensing measures,’ he said.

He called for the urgent domestication of the National Building Code across all states of the country.

This, he said, will ‘empower states to establish physical planning permit regulations and building control regulations that align with national standards, ensuring uniformity and enhanced compliance across the country’.

He also reaffirmed the association’s commitment to excellence, safety, and professionalism.

He equally charged builders to be vanguards of change and ensure that every building stands as a testament to quality, durability, and safety.