The collaborative efforts between the Nigerian Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (NIEEE) and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) are poised to revolutionize the construction sector in Nigeria. By ensuring adherence to standards and specifications for imported materials, these two bodies aim to foster professionalism, eliminate substandard practices, and boost investor confidence in the sector. With the introduction of the new CIEEEN Act and ongoing technical visits, the focus remains on building a robust infrastructure framework that inspires trust and investment.
Commitment to Collaboration and Technical Expertise
The Role of NIEEE
NIEEE President, Engr. Felix Olu, has emphasized the institute’s unwavering commitment to collaboration and technical expertise to uphold the highest standards. The NIEEE has always been at the forefront of ensuring that the engineering practices in Nigeria align with global best practices. During a recent technical visit to the SON Laboratory Complex in Lagos, Engr. Olu presented the newly introduced CIEEEN Act, which aims to enhance professionalism and eradicate substandard practices in the sector. The act is expected to play a pivotal role in sectoral sanitization by setting clear guidelines and benchmarks for electrical and electronic engineering.Engr. Olu’s presentation highlighted the critical need for maintaining high standards to boost investor confidence and eliminate quackery. He stressed that the collaboration between NIEEE and SON is not just about setting standards but also about ensuring that these standards are adhered to in practice. By working together, the two organizations can leverage their expertise to identify and eliminate substandard practices that jeopardize the integrity of the construction sector. This collaborative approach is expected to foster a professional environment where qualified engineers can thrive and contribute to the nation’s development.Enhancing Professionalism
The newly introduced CIEEEN Act is a significant milestone in the journey toward enhancing professionalism in the sector. The act sets stringent criteria for the certification and practice of electrical and electronic engineers, ensuring that only qualified professionals are allowed to operate. This legislative framework is designed to eliminate quackery and substandard practices that have plagued the industry for years. Engr. Olu underscored that the act would also serve as a deterrent to individuals and companies that seek to cut corners and compromise on quality.During the visit to the SON Laboratory Complex, it was evident that the collaboration between NIEEE and SON is yielding positive results. Engr. Ismaila Lawal of SON highlighted the tangible benefits of this partnership, particularly in terms of improved efficiency in managing standards. The support from NIEEE, through the nomination of personnel for technical committees, has significantly enhanced SON’s capacity to enforce standards and ensure compliance. This synergy between the two organizations is crucial for creating a regulatory environment that promotes excellence and professionalism in the construction sector.Addressing Sector Challenges
Tackling Quackery and Substandard Products
One of the major challenges facing the construction sector in Nigeria is the prevalence of quackery and substandard imported products. These issues not only compromise the quality of construction projects but also pose significant risks to safety and durability. It is estimated that 80% of substandard goods in Nigeria are imported, highlighting the urgent need for stringent regulatory measures. The collaboration between NIEEE and SON is portrayed as crucial for enhancing regulatory measures and ensuring quality assurance.Engr. Lawal noted that the presence of quackery and substandard products has long been a thorn in the side of the construction sector. He stressed that through the collaborative efforts of NIEEE and SON, significant strides have been made in curbing these malpractices. One of the key strategies has been the establishment of strict import controls and quality checks to prevent substandard materials from entering the market. These measures are not only designed to protect consumers but also to ensure that construction projects meet the highest standards of safety and quality.Capacity Building and Professional Development
The collaborative efforts between the Nigerian Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (NIEEE) and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) are set to bring about significant changes in Nigeria’s construction industry. By ensuring that imported materials meet required standards and specifications, these organizations aim to enhance professionalism, eradicate substandard practices, and increase investor confidence in the sector. The introduction of the new CIEEEN Act and regular technical visits underscore their commitment to developing a strong infrastructure framework. This initiative is expected to establish a high level of trust and attract substantial investments, which in turn will drive the sector’s growth. Furthermore, these measures are designed to improve the durability and safety of construction projects, ensuring they meet international standards. The partnership between NIEEE and SON exemplifies the kind of proactive governance needed to transform the construction industry into a more reliable and investment-friendly domain, setting a precedent for other sectors to follow.
