The President of the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB), Bldr. Daniel Abimbola Kolade has called on professional builders across the country to adopt innovation and entrepreneurship as essential tools for addressing Nigeria’s housing shortfall.
A statement on Monday, October 20, 2025, revealed that Kolade stated this during the Inaugural Council Meeting of the Institute at its National Secretariat in Abuja.
In his keynote address, “Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Key Drivers of Housing Delivery,” he emphasised the need for a transformative shift in the nation’s housing delivery strategy.
Kolade described the meeting as a pivotal moment to redefine the Institute’s policy direction for the next two years.
According to him, Nigeria’s housing deficit should be seen not just as a challenge, but as an opportunity for builders to lead national development.
“As custodians of building production management, we must evolve beyond technical expertise to become innovators, entrepreneurs, and strategic solution providers.”
He stressed the importance of integrating innovation into the professional culture of builders, encouraging the use of sustainable technologies, research-backed methods, and digital project management tools.
Also Read: Bayelsa Health Commissioner Seiyefa Brisibe Quits PDP
Kolade also revealed plans by the Institute to foster innovation through research partnerships, innovation labs, and pilot projects that test new construction techniques.
On entrepreneurship, he noted that technical skills alone are no longer enough, urging builders to become business-minded professionals capable of creating jobs and driving economic growth through construction ventures.
He outlined five key policy pillars to guide the institute over the next two years to be Innovation and Research, Entrepreneurial Development, Professional Regulation and Ethics, Advocacy and Policy Influence and Capacity Building and Youth Empowerment.
Kolade also paid tribute to past NIOB leaders, acknowledging their foundational efforts while affirming his administration’s commitment to progress and expansion.
“If we can harness innovation, embrace entrepreneurship, and remain professionally united, we won’t just bridge the housing gap, we will redefine housing standards across Africa,” he stated.
He further urged builders to see themselves not only as craftsmen but as nation-builders and visionaries committed to sustainable development.
Earlier, Kolade led the Council on a site visit to the NIOB construction project at Idu, Abuja.
