Builders Day: Build Right, Avoid Quacks

The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has advised Nigerians against patronisng quacks for construction of buildings in the country.

Dr Ifeanyi Okeke, Director-General (D-G), Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), gave the advice on Thursday in Ilorin at a workshop in commemoration of the 2025 Builders Day.

Okeke, represented by the Kwara State Coordinator of SON, Mr Ayenioye Feyisayo, said the advice was necessitated by the incessant building collapses, which resulted to loss of lives and properties across the country.

According to the D-G, the process of building is a specialized field.

“You may have all the standard materials on hand, but the choice of how they are used will determine the quality of the building structures we have in our country,” he said.

He explained that SON was collaborating with the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB) to commemorate the day and raise awareness about the dangers of quacks in Nigeria’s construction industry.

“The program is a platform to engage with stakeholders and other Nigerians on how to have effective building facilities.

“We designate standards and elaborate specifications concerning materials, structure, facilities, building products and processes.

“Structure is a major thing because Nigerians should have quality structure.

“We are worried about the collapse of buildings in Nigeria, and we feel that when professionals are engaged in this kind of industry, Nigerians will have better buildings.

”This will improve the quality of life and a stable environment that is safe and comfortable,” he said.

Also, the National President of NIOB, Sir Alderton Ewa-Ewa, stated the importance of building control and regulatory compliance in achieving sustainable constructions.

Ewa-Ewa, represented by the NIOB Kwara State Chairman, Mr. Kazeem Folaranmi, explained that builders served as the frontline enforcers of standards and regulations.

The national president pointed out that the institute ensured that every structure met safety, durability, and environmental sustainability requirements.

“Frequent cases of building collapse are not only alarming, but also a tragic reminder of the need for strict adherence to building regulations, professional ethics and standard construction practices.

“Quackery is the biggest threat to the building industry, while professional builders must stand firm against the menace.

“We must ensure that only qualified and certified professionals handle construction projects,” he said. (NAN)