Rising Concerns Over Unqualified Workers in Nigeria’s Construction Sector
The Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) has issued a warning about the growing problem of unqualified individuals, known as “quacks,” being involved in the construction industry. This issue has led to numerous building collapses and poses a serious threat to public safety.
During a press conference held for the 33rd COREN Engineering Assembly, the President of COREN, Prof. Sadiq Abubakar, highlighted that over 80% of building collapses were attributed to these unlicensed professionals. He explained that developers often hire quacks because they offer lower prices for their services. However, this cost-saving measure comes at a significant risk, as these individuals lack the necessary qualifications and expertise to ensure safe and reliable construction.
Prof. Abubakar emphasized that the council is taking several steps to address this issue. One of the key measures involves ensuring that all building construction projects are awarded to licensed engineers who are registered with COREN. This initiative aims to prevent unqualified individuals from entering the sector and compromising the quality of construction work.
In addition to these efforts, the council has announced plans to review the payment structure for engineering services. This review is intended to address the disparity in compensation between local engineers and expatriates. According to Prof. Abubakar, the current payment system has created a divide, which may encourage developers to seek cheaper, unqualified labor rather than investing in qualified professionals.
He pointed out that there has been a noticeable decline in the involvement of licensed professionals in failed projects. Instead, there is an increasing trend of developers and clients engaging quacks, often due to the lower remuneration offered to registered engineers. These professionals are unwilling to compromise on quality, so they disengage from projects that involve substandard materials or practices. As a result, developers turn to quacks, who are more willing to accept such conditions.
COREN has also taken legal action against those quacks implicated in building collapses. The council has referred some of these individuals to the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for further investigation. This move underscores the seriousness of the issue and the need for accountability within the industry.
The situation highlights a broader challenge in the construction sector, where the pursuit of cost-cutting measures can lead to dangerous outcomes. It is essential for developers and clients to prioritize safety and quality over short-term savings. By working closely with regulatory bodies like COREN, the industry can take steps to ensure that only qualified professionals are involved in construction projects.
Furthermore, the review of payment structures is a critical step in addressing the underlying issues that contribute to the rise of quacks. By ensuring fair compensation for engineers, the industry can attract and retain skilled professionals who are committed to maintaining high standards of work.
As the construction sector continues to grow, it is vital to implement and enforce strict regulations to protect both workers and the public. The role of COREN in this process cannot be overstated, as it plays a crucial part in safeguarding the integrity of engineering practices in Nigeria.
In conclusion, the increasing reliance on unqualified workers in the construction industry is a pressing concern that requires immediate attention. Through proactive measures, regulatory enforcement, and fair compensation practices, the sector can move towards a safer and more sustainable future.
