The Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON) has inducted 436 new builders into the Nigerian construction industry, issuing a strong warning against unethical practices that could erode professional standards and endanger public safety.

Speaking at the 2025 induction ceremony, the Chairman of CORBON, Dr Samson Opaluwah, said the event marked the successful completion of years of rigorous academic training, professional development, and practical experience by the inductees, who have now met the requirements to practice as registered builders under the Builders (Registration) Act, Cap B13, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.

Opaluwah emphasised that the building profession carries a critical responsibility to safeguard lives and property, noting that every construction project must align with principles of safety, sustainability, and quality delivery.

According to him, the construction sector is currently facing significant challenges, particularly the persistent cases of building collapse across the country, which he described as largely preventable through strict adherence to professional ethics and regulatory standards.

“As you begin your careers, you are entering an industry that is under intense public scrutiny. The call for professionalism and ethical conduct in the built environment has never been louder,” he said.

He noted that CORBON remains committed to regulating and controlling the practice of building in Nigeria, adding that the council would not hesitate to sanction professionals found guilty of misconduct, negligence, or compromise of safety standards.

The CORBON chairman explained that the induction of new builders was not merely a ceremonial exercise but a formal affirmation of competence, accountability, and responsibility to the public.

“Your registration does not simply confer a title. It is a declaration of your readiness to uphold integrity, competence, and public safety. You are expected to function as guardians of the built environment and champions of excellence in project delivery,” Opaluwah stated.

He further urged the inductees to continuously update their professional knowledge, embrace innovation, and comply strictly with regulations guiding construction practices in Nigeria, particularly as the country seeks sustainable solutions to its growing housing deficit.

Opaluwah also highlighted the role of builders in national development, noting that the profession operates at the foundation of infrastructure growth, urban development, and economic stability.

He expressed confidence that the newly inducted builders would contribute positively to the industry and help restore public trust through responsible and ethical practice.

The post CORBON Warns Against Unethical Practices, Inducts 436 Builders appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Registered builders and industry stakeholders are calling for stricter enforcement of building codes and planning laws across Nigeria.

The Chairman of the Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON), Dr. Samson Opaluwah, emphasized that robust legal frameworks and professional oversight are essential to curb the alarming rise in building collapses. He urged governors to enact and enforce planning laws to ensure structures meet safety and quality standards.

Similarly, the Director General of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Dr. Ifeanyi Okeke, attributed frequent structural failures to non-adherence to codes, substandard materials, and weak enforcement. He called for collective action from contractors, suppliers, and professionals to prioritize safety and quality in construction.

Experts warn that the failure to implement the National Building Code—even after being approved years ago continues to undermine investor confidence. Unsafe construction practices persist, driving developers and insurers away from the sector.

The post Builders Urge Adherence to Building Codes to Prevent Collapses appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON) and the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) agreed to work together to improve the quality of construction and engineering projects across the country.

Dr. Samson Opaluwah, Chairman of CORBON, described the agreement as a milestone for the industry.

“This marks a turning point in our efforts to promote professional excellence and optimize human resources in the built environment,” he said.

The MoU outlines areas of collaboration such as:

• Knowledge exchange
• Joint capacity building
• Regulatory enforcement
• Promotion of best practices
• Tackling Infrastructure Challenges in Nigeria

COREN President, Professor Sadiq Abubakar, emphasized the need for cooperation rather than rivalry. He warned that a lack of unity could harm the nation’s infrastructure and economy.

“If we see ourselves as competitors, Nigeria will lose. Our economy will suffer,” he stated.

The CORBON and COREN partnership will also focus on addressing the root causes of building collapses, a recurring issue in Nigeria. Professor Abubakar pointed out that most existing laws do not adequately address the actions of developers.

“Eighty percent of the issues are not captured by legislation. This MoU will help change that,” he said.

COREN has already begun the process of amending legislation to extend its regulatory authority. Abubakar confirmed that CORBON would be invited to contribute to the proposal before it is presented to the National Assembly.

“We want to fast-track the process. Our aim is to get this to the National Assembly by the end of the year,” he explained.

As part of the agreement, CORBON professionals will now participate in COREN’s Enforcement and Regulatory Monitoring (ERM) across all states and the Federal Capital Territory.

Both organizations stressed that the CORBON and COREN partnership will help eliminate unqualified practitioners and raise confidence in Nigeria’s construction sector.

“When we go out, we go as a solid group,” said Abubakar.

“This is about cooperation, not competition,” added Opaluwah. “It’s a joint commitment to build a better future for Nigeria.”

The event concluded with an exchange of gifts, symbolizing the shared mission of both councils to enhance standards and professionalism in Nigeria’s built environment.

The post CORBON and COREN Seal Alliance to Raise Infrastructure Standards in Nigeria appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Delivering the keynote address titled ‘Facilities Management – Breaking Barriers, Empowering Equality: A Journey Towards Professional Practice Excellence’ at the investiture ceremony of Akpatre Ndaw as the 2nd National Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Builders in Facilities Management, Opaluwah emphasised that facility management remained underappreciated and often misunderstood, despite its strategic importance in national development.

He said, “The world is changing rapidly, and the facilities management industry is no exception. We are witnessing a lot of technological advancements, evolving workplace cultures, and a growing demand for sustainability.”

Highlighting the current gaps in the industry, he described facility management in Nigeria as still being in its infancy stage, hampered by a lack of skilled professionals, limited awareness, resistance to technological change, and inadequate policy support.

“One of the biggest challenges facility management faces is the lack of visibility and perceived lack of prestige. Many organisations view facilities managers as mere ‘maintenance personnel’ rather than strategic leaders who contribute to business success,” he said.

Opaluwah called for a national framework to standardise facility management practice, saying, “Unlike traditional professions, facility management lacks universally recognised qualifications and accreditation systems.

To elevate facility management into a recognised profession, we must advocate for internationally accepted certification programmes.”

Calling on stakeholders to support legislative reforms, Opaluwah noted that the bill for regulation of facilities management practice in Nigeria was currently at the National Assembly.

He added. All well-placed practitioners and individuals are enjoined to support the bill, as this will not only enhance the practice but also provide a regulatory framework for standards”.

“I envision a future where facility management operations would be fully digital and autonomous. An equipment/installation will communicate their functional status and service requests online with the supply chain software triggering a procurement process. The function of the facility manager will then become that of programming and remote monitoring.”

While recognising the role of innovation and AI, Opaluwah insisted that education and mentorship must be prioritised.

He explained, “Empowering equality in facility management means ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, has access to education and career growth opportunities.

“Whether you are a facilities manager, industry leader, investor or policymaker, you have the power to make a difference. Let us work together to shape the future of facility management, one that is inclusive, innovative, and professional.”

The post CORBON Calls for Policy Reforms to Strengthen Facility Management Sector appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

In a significant move to address the impact of Nigeria’s ongoing tax reforms on the building and construction sector, the Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON) has formalized partnership with the pioneer and leading civil society organization promoting affordable housing in Africa, the Housing Development Advocacy Network (HDAN), owners of Housing TV Africa, to co-host a high-level forum to discuss the implications of the new tax reform on the building and construction industry.

The event aims to shed light on recent changes in tax regulations, explore emerging market opportunities, and tackle the challenges faced by stakeholders in implementing the new tax law.

In a press release, HDAN’s Executive Director, Festus Adebayo, stated that the collaboration with CORBON could not have come at a better time.

“We cannot fold our arms and allow the new tax reform to be passed into law without explaining its implications on the building and construction industry, and that is what we are planning to do in collaboration with CORBON, whose new leadership has prioritized advocacy for the development of the sector,” the statement reads.

Adebayo also emphasized that outcomes from this forum would be vital for its lobbying activities, particularly as it intends to engage with the new Tax Reform Committee at the National Assembly.

“The resolutions from this forum will be of great interest to our lobby group, as we aim to ensure that relevant concerns are addressed,” Adebayo noted.

He further confirmed that Mr. Taiwo Oyedele who is the Chairman, Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms has confirmed to be the Keynote Speaker, and the Minister for Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Dangiwa will be there as a Special Guest of Honour, while the Chairman of CORBON, Bldr. Samson Opaluwah, will be the Chief Host.

Recognized for his expertise in fiscal policy, Mr. Oyedele’s involvement underscores the forum’s significance for shaping tax-related decisions that affect the construction and real estate sectors. Both CORBON and HDAN are also collaborating to identify and invite a diverse panel of experts who will enrich the discussions.

The goal is to bring together professionals from taxation, construction, real estate, finance, and policy to ensure a well-rounded exploration of issues and solutions.

The partnership between CORBON and HDAN comes at a crucial time, as Nigeria’s construction sector continues to expand and evolve under new tax regimes. The forum will delve into tax compliance and incentives, policy gaps and opportunities, and collaborative advocacy, with the aim of uniting professional bodies, civil society groups, and government representatives to create a balanced approach that benefits both the public and private sectors.

By pooling resources and expertise, CORBON and HDAN hope to influence policy formulation and implementation in ways that bolster Nigeria’s housing and construction ecosystem.

According to HDAN, “This collaboration is not just about organizing an event, it’s about driving meaningful change and ensuring that voices from the grassroots, professional bodies, and policymakers are heard in the ongoing discussions around tax reforms.”

The event will be held on Thursday, April 24, 2025 at the Ladi Kwali Hall, Abuja Continental Hotel, Abuja. Participation will be by registration, not just for everybody but to also accommodate all senior professionals, experts and leaders in the sector.

The Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON) is the statutory regulatory body for the practice of building in Nigeria. It is committed to advancing professional standards, promoting best practices, and influencing policies that support a robust and sustainable construction sector. Since the new leadership, council and registrar, it has been a different ball game with a more proactive approach.

The Housing Development Advocacy Network (HDAN) is a leading civil society organization and the owners of Africa International Housing Show and Housing TV Africa, dedicated to championing affordable housing, transparent policies, and sustainable growth in Nigeria’s real estate and construction industries. Its membership includes professionals that cut across different areas and professional bodies. Through research, advocacy, and strategic partnerships, HDAN seeks to influence policy reforms and promote equitable development.

The post CORBON, HDAN Partner for High-Level Forum on Nigeria’s New Tax Reforms appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON) has raised the alarm over Nigeria’s housing deficit, which is now estimated at over 20 million, describing it as a national emergency requiring urgent intervention from all levels of government.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday to commemorate the council’s 35th anniversary, CORBON Chairman, Dr. Samson Opaluwah, highlighted the critical role of the building profession in Nigeria’s economic development. He reaffirmed the council’s commitment to addressing the deficit through collaborative efforts and professional excellence.

“Globally, the building and construction industry is pivotal in providing and maintaining infrastructure, serving as a key indicator of economic growth. Nigeria is no exception,” Dr. Opaluwah stated.

He called for a responsive social housing programme to cater to vulnerable groups, emphasizing the need for improved access to land and liberalized mortgage systems to empower young Nigerians toward homeownership.

At a separate event to induct 329 new members into the council, Dr. Opaluwah urged the inductees to uphold the values of professionalism and excellence in their practices. He also called on state governments to enact and enforce planning laws to ensure sustainable development across the country.

The council reiterated its commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to address the housing crisis, which continues to hinder Nigeria’s socioeconomic growth.

The post CORBON Declares Housing Deficit a National Emergency appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON) has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling Nigeria’s persistent housing deficit, currently estimated between 17 to 20 million units.

Speaking during a press conference in Abuja to mark CORBON’s 35th anniversary, Chairman Dr. Samson Opaluwah underscored the critical role of the building and construction industry in driving economic development and addressing pressing societal needs.

Dr. Opaluwah highlighted that the construction sector serves as a barometer for economic growth worldwide, and Nigeria is no exception. As the country grapples with a widening housing gap, CORBON has proposed several innovative strategies to accelerate housing delivery. Among these are a comprehensive national housing strategy, large-scale training programs for building professionals, and a plan to bolster the production of locally sourced building materials.

Central to CORBON’s vision is the establishment of a responsive social housing program aimed at addressing the needs of vulnerable populations. Dr. Opaluwah emphasized the importance of improving access to land and overhauling mortgage systems to empower Nigeria’s youth to achieve homeownership. “Access to mortgages must be liberalized with proper safeguards to make homeownership a reality for our younger generation,” he stated.

The council is also strengthening partnerships with other regulatory bodies like COREN to ensure uniform building standards and robust regulatory oversight. This collaboration aims to create a stronger framework for building control across Nigeria, safeguarding both quality and safety in construction projects.

Reflecting on its 35 years of existence, CORBON has achieved significant milestones, including the accreditation of over 50 tertiary institutions and the registration of approximately 4,000 licensed builders. The council has also been instrumental in workforce development, training around 50,000 individuals in various construction trades across 250 centers.

A notable achievement is the establishment of the Project Evaluation and Monitoring Unit, which oversees construction projects and ensures strict adherence to quality standards. Dr. Opaluwah described this initiative as a vital step in enhancing the capacity of sub-national government agencies in project monitoring and control.

Looking ahead, CORBON has ambitious plans to commemorate its anniversary in 2025 with several high-profile events. These include a National Seminar, the foundation stone laying for its National Headquarters in Abuja, and the inaugural International Building Congress, scheduled for November 2025. This biennial event aims to unite stakeholders from Nigeria and the diaspora to discuss advancements in the construction industry.

Dr. Opaluwah also called for urgent policy reforms, including the review of CORBON’s enabling Act and the enforcement of the Nigerian National Building Code. These reforms, he said, are essential for repositioning the council and fostering stronger collaborations within the built environment.

As he paid tribute to the founding fathers of Nigeria’s building profession, Dr. Opaluwah acknowledged their tireless efforts in laying the foundation for the industry’s progress. “We honor the vision and determination of those who paved the way, and their legacy continues to inspire us,” he remarked.

With its comprehensive roadmap and ongoing dedication to innovation, CORBON remains steadfast in its mission to bridge Nigeria’s housing deficit and transform the construction sector into a cornerstone of national development.

The post CORBON Advocates Bold Reforms to Close Nigeria’s Housing Gap appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The President of CORBON, Dr. Samson Opaluwah, announced during a media briefing, expressing optimism about the council’s new responsibilities. According to Opaluwah, the SSC mandate will enable CORBON to tackle the skills gap in the construction industry by offering structured training for artisans across Nigeria.

Dr. Opaluwah also celebrated Nigeria’s recent membership in World Skills International, a global organization focused on promoting vocational skills and training. He noted that this achievement opens new opportunities for Nigerian youths to participate in international skills competitions, learn global best practices, and enhance their capabilities in various trades.

READ ALSO:CORBON Calls for Thorough Assessment of Buildings in Areas Affected by Earth Tremors

“This membership not only positions Nigeria to export skilled labor to other countries in need but also increases diaspora remittances to the nation,” Opaluwah said. He further highlighted the importance of advancing Nigeria’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) system through the National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF).

READ ALSO: CORBON Urges FHA to Prioritize Licensed Builders for Housing Projects

This milestone, according to Opaluwah, ensures that Nigerian youths are equipped with the necessary skills to compete in the global economy, marking a significant step toward improving vocational education in the country.

The post CORBON to Lead Artisan Training as Nigeria Joins Global Skills Council appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

A statement from the Council on Thursday, signed by the Registrar and Secretary to Council, Bldr. Adetunji Adeniran, commended ‘timely efforts made by relevant government agencies, led by the Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology, Uche Nnaji to assure citizens of their safety and allay the fear of residents.’

The Council said: ‘The Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON) notes the recent earth tremors experienced in Abuja, particularly in Mpape and surrounding areas.’

READ ALSO: NASRDA Calls for Action Against Illegal Mining in Abuja Following Earth Tremors

‘While assurances have been given by relevant agencies that the tremors pose no immediate environmental threat, CORBON hereby emphasizes the need for appropriate safety precautions and proactive measures to be taken on all buildings in the affected areas.’

‘Specifically, CORBON urges relevant stakeholders and government agencies including the Department of Development Control, property owners, and the general public to conduct thorough structural integrity tests, including non destructive tests (NDT) on residential, commercial and public buildings in the affected area.’

READ ALSO: Concerns Rise as Earth Tremors Shake Abuja Communities

While calling on all relevant stakeholders to collaborate with Registered Builders and other experts to assess and address potential vulnerabilities of all the buildings in the affected areas, the Council said they should also prioritize safety and structural integrity in construction and maintenance practices.

‘CORBON remains committed to promoting global best practice in the building industry and ensuring public safety,’ the statement said, adding that the Council will continue to monitor the situation and provide guidance as necessary..

The post CORBON Calls for Thorough Assessment of Buildings in Areas Affected by Earth Tremors appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The purpose for the inauguration of the Council is to formalize the structure for upskilling and technical growth of Builders & artisans to chart a new course for skills development and innovation in the buildings and construction Industry. The event took place recently in Abuja.

Making up the Council are members of Other Bodies of the ecosystem including Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (Redan), Nigerian Institute of Builders (NIOB), The Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBBRI), among others. Some members of the Council include:

President – Bldr. Samson Ameh Opaluwah

secretary – Bldr. Adetunji Adeniran

Husseini Abubakar – Representing Real Estate Developers Association Of Nigeria (Redan)

Alhaji Alhassan Ibrahim – Representing Dantata and Sawoe

Bldr. Alderton Ewa Ewa – Representing Nigerian Institute of Builders (NIOB)

Victor Oyenuga

READ ALSO: CORBON Urges FHA to Prioritize Licensed Builders for Housing Projects

Bldr. prof Victor Olanipekun – Obafemi Awolowo University.

Engr. Bashiru Datti Amin – Representing The National Board for Technical Education (NBTE)

Engr. Ojelade Gabriel – Representing Ministry of Labour and Employment.

Bldr. Kazeem Gaius – Representing Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBBRI)

The Council is to facilitate skills development and innovation in the buildings and construction Industry, formalizing technical education for artisans and maintaining Standards in the sector through continuous upskilling of artisans, builders in the Industry. Inaugurating the Council on behalf of President Bola Tinubu was the Senior Special Assistant, Technical, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Education, Abiola Arogundade.

The post FG, CORBON inaugurate Sector skills Council for Building Industry appeared first on Housing TV Africa.