The Federal Government has urged members of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS) to collaborate with the ministry on the ongoing review of building standards and regulations.

The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, who received the institute to the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja during a courtesy visit, emphasised the importance of aligning industry benchmarks with global best practices, ensuring they reflect the unique challenges and opportunities of the Nigerian construction sector.

Emphasising the vital role that the institute plays in maintaining and elevating industry standards within the construction and building sector in Nigeria, the minister stressed the importance of setting and upholding high ethical and professional standards among its members.

He urged NIQS to take stringent disciplinary actions against those engaged in substandard practices. By doing so, he emphasised, the institute would protect the reputation of the profession and substantially contribute to the safety and quality of construction in the country.

According to Dangiwa, the institute is a critical partner in the ministry’s efforts to develop cost-effective housing designs and promote the construction of quality and affordable housing that caters to the income profiles of 80 percent of Nigerians falling within the low- and medium-income bracket.

“One of the central pillars of my tenure is the prioritisation of affordable housing. It is of utmost importance that we address the housing needs of the 80 per cent of Nigeria’s population who fall within the no-income, low to medium earners category.

“These hardworking citizens are equally deserving of living in decent, well-planned homes and neighborhoods that reflect the principles of inclusivity and fairness. Achieving this requires affordable housing design concepts based on the most efficient bills of quantities,” he stated.

He sought the institute’s input on the affordable housing design, which will ensure more efficient design options that fit the income profiles of Nigerians within the low- and medium-income bracket. “Our goal is to come up with the most efficient, workable, and sustainable affordable designs that will help us deliver on our mandate,” he noted.

“Your profession plays a key role in the delivery of affordable housing. Your ability to manage costs, optimise resources, and ensure quality and compliance directly impacts the feasibility of affordable housing projects.”

“By leveraging your expertise, we can create sustainable, well-built, and affordable housing solutions for communities, promoting social development and economic progress.

“Indeed, quantity surveyors are the custodians of fiscal responsibility in construction. Your discerning eyes prevent wastage, ensuring that resources are utilized efficiently. Through their expertise, they pave the way for affordable housing without compromise.”

Furthermore, the minister expressed his deep appreciation for the expertise of quantity surveyors and acknowledged their ability to optimise resources, manage costs, and guarantee quality, all of which directly influence the feasibility of affordable housing projects.

Earlier, Shonubi commended the ministry’s proactive approach towards affordable housing and assured the minister of NIQS’ commitment and collaboration in proposed policies, as well as dedication to maintaining high standards within the industry.

“The NIQS is deeply committed to ensuring that our members adhere to the highest ethical standards. We will collaborate with the ministry to provide expert input during the review of building standards and regulations. Together, we can contribute significantly to the development of quality and affordable housing in Nigeria,” he added.