The Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) has reiterated the importance of establishing building manufacturing hubs across the country to address the escalating cost of construction materials and promote affordable housing.
Speaking during a press conference in Abuja as part of activities marking the Institute’s 65th Anniversary, NIA President Arc. Mobolaji Adeola emphasized the need for swift implementation of the federal government’s plan to set up these hubs. She noted that with Nigeria’s high foreign exchange rates and costly importation processes, domestic production of building materials through regional hubs would significantly reduce prices.
“Establishing building manufacturing hubs in each geo-political zone is critical to ensuring affordable housing,” Adeola said. “Social housing is also vital for low and middle-income earners, and local manufacturing would lessen reliance on imported materials.”
She also highlighted NIA’s collaborative efforts with the government over the decades, including a recent competition focused on designing affordable housing. According to her, the Institute has expanded its membership from just seven at inception to over 15,000 nationwide.
Also speaking at the event, Arc. Olubukola Ejiwunmi, the Institute’s first female architect, underscored NIA’s commitment to sanitizing the building sector and combating the proliferation of unqualified practitioners, who she said have contributed significantly to building collapses across the country.
The NIA’s call supports the federal government’s broader strategy to ease housing challenges by promoting local content in the construction industry.
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