Property
Building collapse issue has only been addressed through lip service – Omeife
Builder Chucks Omeife is a fellow and past president of the Nigerian Institute of Building and currently President, Chartered Project Management Institute of Nigeria. In this interview with Associate Editor, Dada Jackson, he bares his mind on a number of topical issues such as the National Building Code and Land Use Act and unhealthy competition among professionals in the built environment. Excerpts:
What is your take on the incessant collapse of buildings nationwide?
There has not been a concerted and deliberate effort on the part of government to abate the problem of building collapse across the country. The issue of building collapse has only been addressed through lip service. I say this with very serious sense of responsibility because building delivery is a multi-faceted process with multi-professional input.
What is the specific role of the professional in the construction process? I ask because of the infiltration of quacks in the built environment.
Every professional involved in building delivery process must be tasked and their role is limited to their core competencies. Every professional in the built environment must be allowed to practise what they were trained for and anyone going beyond their known statutory role and practice should be seriously sanctioned to act as a deterrent for others who are practising quackery.
What is stalling the enforcement of the building regulation by states while awaiting the passage of the National Building Code?
The government must deliberately enforce the new building regulation like the one in Lagos Sate and put punitive measures in place in the event of contravention. The issue of the site signboard has become critical and should be implemented by displaying names of professionals involved in such project for easy identification and possible sanctions in the case of any problem. In most signboards seen displayed on building sites across Lagos, for example, the builder who is responsible for the day-to-day management of construction process and supervision of craftsmen and artisans is missing. The question to ask here is: who is managing the construction process in such sites? This obviously is a reflection of the risk quacks take upon themselves knowing full well that what they are doing is illegal and such is an accident waiting to happen. This is why l said averting building collapse is not a sky rocket science; it is as simple as being put forward above. Incidentally, like l said, these are not very difficult regulations to implement but the lack of will power has been the issue. Lots of building construction are going on in every corner in Lagos State; the names on the signboards show that something is definitely wrong and can be easily addressed if there is seriousness and will power to right the wrongs. Unfortunately, we all cry and feel sorry whenever a building collapses while the solution is here with us.
What in your opinion is responsible for the delay in the passage of the National Building Code by the National Assembly?
The issue of the National Building Code has become politicised, which is most unfortunate. I do not understand why there is no enabling law to back it up or what the National Assembly is benefitting from non-passage of the enabling law. This is a document purely put together for public interest and to conserve our national assets and prevent wastefulness of resources each time there is a collapse. Fortunately, the code has recently been reviewed in line with its provisions; that is to be reviewed every five years. As it stands today since the last National Assembly did not complete the process of putting in a place an enabling law, this new Assembly must start all over again. I am however hoping that The minister of works and housing can use his good offices to package the code as an executive bill through the Presidency. This way, the process will be given accelerated hearing and the process to enact an enabling law can be shortened and eventually put in place.
There is this clamour by builders that a resident builder should always be at construction sites. Do you subscribe to this position?
Having a resident builder on building construction sites is one of the major steps to prevent building collapse. A construction site like a factory needs a production manager who in this case for construction site is a builder. The training and course content of builders are detailed and programmed to ensure quality production of buildings within reasonable cost and on agreed time. Irrespective of the quality of design prepared for a building, this does not guarantee its structural stability and durability and confidence except if such buildings construction process is duly managed by a builder. These are the provisions of different extant laws and building regulations which unfortunately are not being implemented and enforced. Like l said earlier, it is one sure way of putting a stop to this problem of incessant collapse of buildings. I mean if we start from there, we can deal with other issues if the problem is not abated but surely collapses will definitely reduce to a large extent. Let’s put a round peg in a round hole. This is very fundamental.
What is your take on the provision of mass housing by the Federal Government?
The discourse on social housing/mass housing has been on for a long time due to the deficit in the national housing stock. The main reason why this discussion has remained relevant is attributed to rising cost of building materials and the issue of affordability. The main purpose of undertaking mass housing is to churn out high volume of houses at a very moderate and affordable cost. In my opinion the major challenge in housing provision is the cost of land and attendant infrastructure that should be put in place. The provision of mass housing by developers who have to buy the land and provide infrastructure cannot make those houses affordable in any way. In other clime as a means of encouragement and regulating the cost of the houses, government contributes land and put in place necessary infrastructure to go along with the development. This enables cost of the houses to be controlled and made affordable by the people. A lot of technology has also been touted as being the best to deliver mass and affordable housing. However whatever technology that is used, the role of government in terms of land provision and infrastructure development is key to housing affordability.
What is your stand on the Land Use Act? Should it be amended or abrogated entirely?
The problem of the Land Use Act has been on the front burner whenever we discuss housing development and financing. The current practice where governors who are supposed to hold land in trust for the people becomes the major determinant when land transaction is put on the table is very sad and discouraging. The overriding power of the governors on land matters is a big minus for housing development, funding and land conversion as an asset. This has discouraged funding in housing and infrastructural development. The major factor negating against its review is the governors’ refusal to let go of this discretionary power and authority on land transactions generally.
Are you satisfied with the collaboration that exists among building professionals and the various bodies?
The built environment and the professional practices of stakeholders are undergoing serious evolution. Different minor professions and specializations are springing up on a daily basis and to remain relevant, one needs to up one’s game in the industry. It is most outdated or thinking in the past for a profession claiming to be the head. Delivery of housing is a team work and those who are current on developments in the industry, their professional body and practices know and understand the direction of things in the industry. While we are all professionals in the sector, our work complements each other; hence, a spirit of team work is more effective than anyone trying to be a boss. Yes, one can be a boss on one’s input. It has been seen that in circumstances where one profession tends to lord it over others, such project is enmeshed in conflict which can affect the project quality delivery in all respect.
My observation about this is that those who hold tenaciously to being the head are not current with their professional or regulatory bodies. They do not keep to their professional code of ethics or conduct; hence, they behave in an improper way annexing other professions’ roles. This is quackery at professional level. Once a professional goes beyond limit of their training by crossing practice boundaries, such a person is a quack and should be treated as such. Our roles and work are interwoven and complementary but there is a clear cut professional boundaries which should be respected and enforced.
The current situation where the sector is seen as an all comers’ affair is a result of some people or professions that want to be jack of all trades and hence encourage others who are not professionals to take up the work of others for pecuniary benefits. This behaviour and attitude has to stop to engender required collaboration and cooperation that can move the industry forward professionally and for national development.
Property
HDAN compiles uncompleted housing projects nationwide
HDAN compiles uncompleted housing projects nationwide
By Dada Jackson
The Housing Development Advocacy Network (HDAN) has commenced the compilation of unoccupied/uncompleted housing projects across various states in Nigeria.
It says the initiative is aimed at addressing the growing concern of abandoned and underutilized housing estates.
It has set a target of four months to make available a compilation of all such identified projects.
It noted in a statement obtained on Friday that many of the houses had remained vacant due to infrastructural deficiencies, wrong location (building in the outskirt of town), poor allocation processes, lack of access roads and regulatory challenges.
This was disclosed by the Executive Director of HDAN, Festus Adebayo, in Abuja.
According to him, the organization, which comprises over 5,000 professionals in the housing and construction sector, is taking a proactive approach to tackling Nigeria’s housing crisis.
“We have seen too many housing projects left unoccupied due to issues such as poor infrastructure, wrong location, high costs, and inefficient allocation processes.
“HDAN is determined to compile a comprehensive list of these estates and work towards practical solutions,” Adebayo stated.
HDAN has been at the forefront of advocating housing sector reforms. And in 2025, the organization is intensifying its efforts by setting up various committees focused on policy lobbying.
Adebayo noted that the group was pushing for amendments to outdated housing-related laws such as the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) Act, the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) Act, and the National Housing Fund (NHF) Act.
“We are also looking at the possibility of a legal framework that will back social housing and recognize the right of citizens to affordable shelter,” he added.
As part of its broader efforts, HDAN is also working towards strengthening research and intelligence in the housing sector.
The statement also said the organisation had committed to supporting the National Housing Data Centre Steering Committee to ensure the collection of accurate and reliable data that will inform policies and investments in the sector.
One of HDAN’s major concerns is the deteriorating condition of many housing estates built under Public-Private Partnerships (PPP).
According to Adebayo, these estates are often in bad shape due to lack of maintenance and ineffective management structures.
He emphasized that making the allocation process more transparent and improving affordability would encourage more residents to occupy them.
Several reports have highlighted the challenges faced by unoccupied housing projects in Nigeria.
“Some of these housing projects are located in areas with inadequate infrastructure, such as poor road networks, unreliable water supply, and lack of electricity, making them unattractive to potential occupants,” an industry report noted.
“Other issues include poor urban planning, where government or private-built estates are situated too far from employment hubs, social amenities, and transportation links.
“In the course of this compilation, HDAN will be reaching out to all financiers and developers that are concerned in these projects.
“Additionally, cumbersome allocation and purchasing processes have discouraged potential buyers.
“The absence of effective policies and regulations, coupled with an uncoordinated allocation system, has led to illegal occupation of some housing estates, undermining the government’s efforts to provide affordable housing,” Adebayo stated.
HDAN has also noted that many estates suffer from issues such as bad roads, lack of perimeter fencing, shortage of reticulated water supply, and poor landscaping.
These factors are said to further discourage prospective residents from moving into the available homes.
Adebayo reiterated HDAN’s commitment to encouraging social housing development and advocating for the government to construct more housing estates in urban and rural areas.
“We need housing that is closer to the people, well-planned, and affordable. The government must take deliberate steps to ensure these homes are not just built but are also livable,” he stated.
With HDAN’s nationwide housing project compilation underway, stakeholders in the housing sector are hopeful that this effort will provide actionable insights that will lead to better housing policies, improved infrastructure, and increased occupancy rates in existing estates.
Property
Over 500 participants for 2025 Africa Int’l housing show in Abuja
Over 500 participants for 2025 Africa Int’l housing show in Abuja
More than 500 participants will attend the Africa International Housing Show (AIHS) 2025 holding at the prestigious Transcorp Hilton, Abuja from the 26th to the 31st of July, 2025.
With high-profile exhibitors and representation from 21 countries, AIHS will provide an unparalleled platform for networking, showcasing innovative housing solutions, and fostering partnerships in the real estate sector.
The event, known as Africa’s largest housing and construction gathering, will bring together key players from various markets, including Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, to explore real estate investment opportunities and housing finance models that can drive sustainable development across the continent.
Speaking on the choice of Transcorp Hilton as the venue for AIHS 2025, Festus Adebayo, the event convener, emphasized that AIHS is not just an exhibition but a movement towards advancing affordable housing, urban transformation, and technological innovation.
He highlighted the show’s role in creating wealth, generating employment, and enhancing housing policies to meet Africa’s growing urbanization needs.
According to him, Nigeria’s strategic position and business-friendly policies reinforce AIHS as the premier destination, AIHS continues to be the premier destination for investors seeking sustainable housing and infrastructure opportunities.
AIHS 2025 will also serve as a platform for stakeholders to exchange knowledge, forge new collaborations, and strengthen the investment ecosystem, aligning with Africa’s development agenda.
To register, exhibit, network, and secure business opportunities, interested persons are told to visit www.africahousingshow.co.
Property
How Festus Adebayo has impacted housing advocacy over the years
How Festus Adebayo has impacted housing advocacy over the years
By Dada Jackson
Festus Oluwasogo Adebayo, a renowned housing advocate and media entrepreneur, started his career as a banker demonstrating a keen interest in public advocacy.
His early professional endeavours laid the groundwork for his eventual focus on housing development and media entrepreneurship.
Festus Adebayo’s career as a housing advocate and media entrepreneur is marked by numerous groundbreaking achievements such as Housing TV.
Adebayo founded Africa’s first specialized television station for the housing industry, broadcasting on StarTimes Channel 149.
This platform addresses housing finance, real estate opportunities, and government policies, making it a critical tool for housing education.
On housing development programme, he started at the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) before moving to Africa Independent Television (AIT). This programme has provided over a decade of insightful discussions on housing and construction, influencing both public opinions and policies.
HDAN boss initiated Africa International Housing Show (AIHS).
As the convener of Africa’s largest housing exhibition and conference, Adebayo has fostered collaboration among stakeholders from over 21 countries, including ministers, policymakers, and industry leaders.
His Housing Development Advocacy Network (HDAN), a civil society organization, engages governments on housing reforms, advocating enabling environments for developers and improved housing policies for low-income earners.
Adebayo’s efforts have enabled over 20,000 Nigerians to achieve homeownership through his mentoring, programmes, and advocacy.
As a recognition and appreciation for his tireless dedication to housing advocacy,
Adebayo has garnered numerous accolades including Housing Personality of the Year in 2020 and 2021 by the Association of Housing Corporation of Nigeria and the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria.
He equally featured among the 60 Leading CEOs in Nigeria by The Guardian Newspaper,
recognized by the Legislature of Ontario, Canada, for his role in fostering international collaboration between Canada and Nigeria.
Logan Kanapathi, MPP of Ontario, praised his visionary leadership in strengthening economic bonds and creating platforms for meaningful dialogue.
He was also honoured by professional bodies, including the Nigerian Institute of Architects, Nigerian Institute of Building, and Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors, for his unparalleled contributions to housing development.
On philanthropy and community development, Adebayo’s philanthropic efforts reflect his commitment to societal development which includes establishment of Festus Adebayo Foundation, which provides scholarships for outstanding students and supporting elderly citizens in his hometown.
The foundation also trains artisans and empowers youths in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, to enhance their housing delivery skills. He is an active member of the CSTEMP Board, that focuses on artisan training for housing delivery.
On international engagements, Adebayo has attended and participated in numerous international conferences, including the World Bank conferences on housing finance and land reforms, UK Construction Week, organized by the Chartered Institute of Housing, Canada-Nigeria Housing Expo, co-organized annually in Toronto.
He has also Partnered with the African Union for Housing Finance (AUHF) and Shelter Afrique, to further the agenda of affordable housing across Africa.
Adebayo is the author of Issues, Challenges, and Prospects in the Housing Sector, Operator’s Perspective, a work that has informed housing policies and inspired dialogue on critical issues affecting the sector.
Festus Adebayo’s legacy is defined by his unwavering commitment to affordable housing and advocacy. Through platforms like Housing TV Africa, the Housing Development Programme, AIHS, and HDAN, he has elevated housing issues to the forefront of public and policy discussions.
His efforts have not only enhanced accessibility to housing but also fostered economic development and social equity across Africa.
Adebayo’s life and career exemplify the power of visionary leadership, dedication, and innovation in transforming lives and communities.
Festus Adebayo hails from Ilesha West Local Government Area of Osun State, Nigeria.
He is a family man blessed with four children: Ifeoluwapo, Oluwatobiloba, Oluwasemilore, and Oluwadarasimi.
His deep connection to his roots is evident through his philanthropic efforts, particularly in his hometown.
Adebayo’s educational journey began at some of Nigeria’s most prestigious institutions.
He is an alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, and the University of Lagos, where he laid a solid foundation for his career.
Over the years, his expertise and contributions have earned him honorary recognitions, including being named an Honorary Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners.
-
metro21 hours agoOmokri : How Tinubu’s political mastery started with Abiola, says El-Rufai, Obi’s forces can’t stop him
-
metro3 days agoI’m not in supremacy battle with Ooni, says new Alaafin
-
Education15 hours agoJAMB officials seize candidates’ hijab at Caleb varsity, Muslim students kick
-
Entertainment2 days agoP-Square: Jude Okoye freed after two months detention
-
International15 hours agoUS releases 41 countries granted 90-day entry without visas (full list)
-
Politics2 days agoLabour Party collapses into APC in Plateau
-
Business3 days agoNigeria’s gas production increases by 15.6% to 227,931.65 mscf
-
metro2 days agoNiger Gov Bago makes U-turn on dreadlocks ban after backlash
You must be logged in to post a comment Login