Senior Partner at VGC Luxury Homes, Dare James, has decried the declining standards of technical schools and artisanship training programmes in Nigeria.

He said the project was to serve as a fulcrum for development of the construction industry, a birthplace of creative minds and solution providers, to address real estate development challenges in the country.

During the unveiling of an affordable home ownership scheme by the company in Lagos, Dare lamented that the industry is being impeded by unprofessionalism, forcing many companies to hire skilled workers from neighboring countries.

While calling on the government to revive and invest in technical and vocational schools, the expert submitted:  “Most project owners fail to carry along professionals like architects, professionally qualified engineers and Lagos State building control agency during each stage of construction to know if the building aligns with the approval given by the state government.

This is aside from research by the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), which indicates that poor quality building materials are major causes of building collapse in Nigeria. I advise, therefore, that builders use the specified cements for every type of building construction undertaken.”

He added that it is a basic human right for every Nigerian to own at least a house that he or she can call his or her own.

“Our vision is to go beyond mere structures into the designing, construction and delivery of a mini estate, comprising a two-bedroom luxury apartment, which can be more affordable for young and low income earners at rock bottom rates,” Dare added.