The Federal Government has entered into a strategic alliance with key regulatory agencies and a private sector firm to implement sweeping reforms in Nigeria’s construction industry. The move is aimed at tackling persistent issues such as structural collapses, unregulated practices, and skill shortages.
The initiative is being driven by the Federal Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation, under the leadership of Minister Uche Nnaji, in collaboration with the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), the Council of Nigerian Mining Engineers and Geoscientists (COMEG), and the Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON). Also involved is Tectonics Engineering Consults, a private firm specialising in engineering innovation.
The collaboration was formalised with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in Abuja, outlining a joint framework to raise construction standards and align with global best practices.
“This partnership represents our ministry’s continued drive to apply innovation and technology in solving critical national challenges,” Minister Nnaji said during the signing. “By working together, we aim to rebuild trust in our construction processes and ensure safety and sustainability across the board.”
Key elements of the partnership include National Compliance Monitoring, which will see regulatory agencies conducting joint site inspections to enforce building codes and safety regulations more effectively. There is also a strong emphasis on integrating advanced technologies, such as digital engineering tools, smart materials, and cutting-edge geotechnical methods, to improve construction outcomes.
The MoU also makes provision for joint accreditation of testing facilities, which will help standardise quality control in material testing across the country. This is expected to eliminate inconsistencies and ensure more reliable results in construction-related assessments.
In addition, pilot demonstration projects will be launched as part of the initiative to showcase the application of new technologies in real-world construction scenarios. These pilot sites will serve as reference models to encourage broader industry adoption.
The programme also focuses on human capital development, with structured training modules aimed at equipping professionals with modern, future-proof skills. Areas of emphasis include regulatory compliance, sustainability, and digital innovation in construction.
Another major component of the agreement is the promotion of data-sharing practices. Findings from site inspections and project performance evaluations will be transparently documented to inform updates to national standards and support evidence-based policymaking.
President of COREN, Engr. Sadiq Abubakar, noted that the partnership comes at a critical time, as the sector continues to grapple with building collapses and professional malpractice.
“This is a proactive step in strengthening the regulatory landscape of Nigeria’s construction industry,” Abubakar said. “Through coordinated oversight and improved standards, we can safeguard lives and investments.”
Also speaking at the event, CEO of Tectonics Engineering Consults, Aisha Gombe, emphasised the significance of bridging the gap between innovation and implementation.
“Our infrastructure should reflect the best of Nigerian expertise and global innovation,” Gombe said. “By fostering skill development and rigorous compliance, we can build a more resilient future for our cities and our people.”
The initiative is expected to roll out in phases, starting with pilot inspections and demonstration projects in selected regions. Experts say it could be a turning point in addressing the deep-rooted issues that have plagued the construction sector for decades.
