NBRRI D-G vows to reduce building collapse, provide affordable housing

Prof. Samson Duna, Director-General, Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBRRI), has promised to reduce cases of building collapse in Nigeria, and provide accessible, affordable housing in the country.

Duna made this known during a thanksgiving church service to celebrate his reappointment as NBRRI D-G by President Bola Tinubu, held at ECWA Central Area, Abuja, on Sunday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Duna was first appointed as the D-G of the institute in 2020, and was reappointed in Nov., 2024 for another four years.

Duna expressed gratitude for his reappointment and outlined his vision for the next four years to include more service delivery to the sub-sector and Nigerians as a whole.

He also pledged to step up advancements in research, with the view to ensure infrastructure durability and affordable housing in the country.

The NBRRI D-G said he would also ensure improvement in the quality of construction materials by deploying state-of-the-art laboratories.

He also promised to prioritise staff welfare, manpower development, and innovative research that directly benefits communities.

Duna added that he would also address housing funding constraints, and focus on implementable research projects that would transform Nigeria’s construction landscape.

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Mr Geoffrey Nnaji, Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, applauded Duna for what he described as his exceptional leadership.

According to him, Duna’s reappointment is a testament to the president’s ability to place “a round peg in a round hole,” toward ensuring Nigeria’s progress through capable leaders.

The minister noted that Duna had achieved remarkable success, stressing that he consistently exceeded expectations due to his trustworthiness and competence.

“He’s a man you can count on. His work has garnered confidence across sectors,” he said.

Also speaking, Mr Daniel Makava, NBRRI’s Director, Consultancy and Extension Services, said Duna’s first tenure witnessed a surge in modern laboratory equipment testing for construction materials like steel and bitumen.

“His focus on research and development led to innovations such as converting plastic waste into road materials, enhancing sustainability in Nigeria’s construction sector.

“The institute also strengthened collaborations with academic institutions, offering internships and joint research opportunities.

“Duna’s leadership has not only elevated NBRRI’s reputation but also fostered a conducive working environment, making his second term a widely welcomed decision,” he said.

Rev. Ogidi Dickson, the host church pastor, in his sermon, urged the congregation to seek God beyond their comfort zones.

“I urge you all to reflect on your faith during times of discomfort and uncertainty.

“Seek Him with your whole heart, and you will find Him, even in the midst of life’s storms.

“Trust God’s enduring mercy and guidance, no matter the season of life,” he said.

NAN reports that dignitaries who graced the event included Sen. Anthony Yaro (Gombe South); Rep. Obed Shehu (Kaltungo, Shongom Constituency); among many others.