The Department of Building, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Niger Delta University (NDU), Bayelsa, at the weekend inducted 14 of its second graduates into the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB).

The ceremony which took place at the university campus, Wilberforce Island had as its theme: “Constructing Intelligence: Shaping Sustainable Futures with Technology”.

In his address, the Head of the Department of Building, Dr Christopher Belonwu, described the occasion as a day of fulfilment, reflection and profound joy for the institution.

He noted that the university was committed to raising competent ethical and industry-ready building professionals, who would contribute meaningfully to national development and global best practices in the built environment.

“As head of department, witnessing the induction of our graduates into the graduate cadre of the Nigerian Institute of Building, gives me joy. The Department of Building was officially kicked off in the 2019/2020 academic session with a clear vision.

“Like every worthwhile venture, the journey was not without challenges. We started with modest facilities, high expectations and an unshakable belief in what the department could become. Today, that belief has been validated.

“This second induction ceremony marks the fruition of years of hard work, resilience and determination by our students who dared to dream, our lecturers who laboured tirelessly to impart knowledge and character, and the university management.

“To our second pioneer graduates and those who have followed, you are not just a product of this department; you are its ambassadors, proof of concept and living legacy.

“It signifies that you have met the academic and ethical thresholds required to begin your professional journey. With this honour comes responsibility,” he said.

The HOD urged them to uphold the standard of the profession, to practice with integrity and to continuously develop yourselves in knowledge and skill.

Belonwu, urged them not to see today as the end of their journey but the beginning of a new era in there lives. He equally commended their parents and guidance who has made sacrifices for them to achieve their desire as builders.

On his part, the Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Allen Agih, who was represented by Prof. Tombra Kingdom DVC Administration, congratulated the newly inductees and that they are going to be good ambassadors of the institution.

He urged them to be of good behavior, as to put the institution in a good light, and to shun any act that will bring bad name to the school.

On his part, Prof. Sylvester Ebigbagha, Dean Faculty of Environmental Sciences NDU, described the occasion as important, having produced the second set of builders of the institution.

He expressed gladness that 14, of the students has scaled through and being found in character and also in learning to be inducted into the Nigeria Institute Of Building.

In his remarks, the President, NIOB, Abimbola Kolade commended NDU for the training of the students and the knowledge gained as graduates inducted into the Nigerian Institute of Building.

Kolade, who was represented by Mr Ahmed Baba Ahmed, former Chairman, NIOB Bayelsa chapter encouraged the inductees to excel in the building profession, innovate, research, and upskill to progress.

He urged the inductees to show good character in anywhere they found themselves, also to have respect for other professional colleagues, in the field.

On his part, Mr Michael Effiong, one of the inductees, commended the NIOB, for finding them worthy to be inducted into their fold, promising that they will be of good behavior.