Dr. Samson Opaluwah, Chairman of CORBON, described the partnership as a pivotal step toward maximizing human capacity and advancing the built environment. He highlighted the initiative as a united front to address persistent challenges in construction and infrastructure delivery.

“This is a transformative moment. It reflects our joint resolve to elevate professional standards and improve outcomes in building and engineering practices,” Opaluwah said.

COREN President, Professor Sadiq Abubakar, echoed the sentiment, calling for cooperation between regulatory bodies to safeguard national interests. He warned that disunity and overlapping functions could undermine efforts to tackle infrastructure deficits and slow economic progress.

“When regulatory agencies treat each other as rivals, the country pays the price. Collaboration is our path to national development,” Abubakar stated.

A key focus of the partnership is tackling the issue of building collapses, which have plagued various parts of the country. Professor Abubakar noted that a significant number of these incidents stem from gaps in existing laws that fail to hold developers adequately accountable.

“Many of the current legal provisions don’t address the main culprits. This memorandum of understanding is a strategic step toward more effective regulation,” he said.

To that end, COREN is working on updating its legal framework to broaden its enforcement capabilities. CORBON will contribute to the drafting of the proposed legislative changes, which COREN aims to submit to the National Assembly before year’s end.

As part of the agreement, CORBON experts will now play an active role in COREN’s Enforcement and Regulatory Monitoring (ERM) activities across Nigeria, including the Federal Capital Territory. This joint approach is expected to boost public trust in the country’s construction industry by weeding out unqualified personnel and enforcing compliance.

“We’ll be working as a single team in the field. It’s not about whose logo is on the jacket, it’s about ensuring safety and excellence for Nigerians,” Opaluwah affirmed.

The partnership was formally sealed with an exchange of symbolic gifts between the two councils, underscoring a shared commitment to improving infrastructure delivery and promoting best practices in Nigeria’s built environment.

The post CORBON, COREN Unite to Strengthen Nigeria’s Construction Standards 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.

Held amidst friends, colleagues, and dignitaries from various sectors, the occasion marked not just a milestone in his life but also his enduring legacy in facility management and public service in Nigeria.

Dr. Opaluwah, a titan in the fields of building, engineering, and facility management, used the event to unveil three books that encapsulate his extensive professional experience and contributions to national development. The celebration was also a platform for attendees to honor a man whose intellectual and professional influence has spanned decades and sectors.

The atmosphere was one of admiration as speakers took turns lauding his contributions. Described as a “colossus” and a “giant by all standards,” Dr. Opaluwah was praised not only for his academic achievements but also for his impact on Nigeria’s infrastructure and facility management sectors. One speaker notably remarked, “This is a man that presidents should headhunt to carry out reforms in countries that need to progress from one level to another.”

Dr. Opaluwah’s extensive professional journey began in 1989, when he was appointed as Estate Maintenance Manager of Benue Cement Company, now Dangote Cement. His career in facility management extended to managing complex infrastructure, utility services, and housing estates, a role that prepared him for greater responsibilities at the National Hospital in Abuja. In 1999, he became the pioneer Director of Maintenance at the hospital, a prestigious role that saw him overseeing Nigeria’s most sophisticated healthcare facility.

During his time in public service, Dr. Opaluwah held various senior positions, including in the Ministry of Health, where he managed facilities for over 100 federal hospitals across the country. His experience also includes a significant role in the 8th All-Africa Games in 2003, where he was the Deputy Director of Sports Facilities and Development. His expertise in facility management continued to influence major national projects, such as reforms initiated by former FCT Minister, Mallam Nasiru El-Rufai, aimed at improving the Federal Capital Territory’s maintenance culture.

The book launch showcased not only his vast experience but also his generosity in sharing knowledge. Dr. Opaluwah’s books, which explore facility management in various sectors including healthcare, sports, and public infrastructure, are already being hailed as must-reads for professionals in the field.

In his emotional speech, Dr. Opaluwah credited God, his family, and Nigeria for his achievements. He reflected on his journey from his humble beginnings in public schools to studying in prestigious institutions like Leeds University. “What you are seeing today is a product of the grace of God,” he said, emphasizing his gratitude for the opportunities Nigeria provided him in education and service.

Dr. Opaluwah’s wife, who has been his pillar of support for over 44 years, was also acknowledged during the event. In his heartfelt tribute, Dr. Opaluwah noted her sacrifices in managing their home while he traversed the globe for work. Their five children and extended family were present, making the occasion a true family affair.

The event drew high-profile guests, including representatives from the Nigerian Institute of Building, Nigerian Society of Engineers, and the Nigerian Academy of Engineering, among others. Attendees underscored Dr. Opaluwah’s exceptional leadership and the lasting impact he has had on Nigeria’s built environment and facility management.

Dr. Opaluwah remains committed to improving society. “As long as I live,” he vowed, “I will continue to do my best to improve the lot of humanity and this country.” His legacy, immortalized in his books, will undoubtedly serve as a guide for future generations of professionals.

The title of the books launched are Health facilities management in Africa, Sports facilities Management in Africa, The Principles and Practice of facility management in Nigeria.

The launch of his books, alongside the celebration of his 70th birthday, marked a fitting tribute to a man whose influence has touched many sectors in Nigeria and beyond.

The post CORBON Chair, Dr. Opaluwah Celebrates 70th Birthday, Launches Impactful Books 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.

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“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.