The Association of Professional Female Builders of Nigeria has called for greater participation of women in the building industry. The group vowed to empower more women to increase their visibility and opportunities in the profession.

The President of the association, Builder Grace Omojola, made the statement on Thursday during her investiture as the fifth president of the body in Akure, Ondo State. She said the association is using mentoring, innovation and entrepreneurship programmes to equip women with the skills needed to succeed.

Omojola noted that the building environment is still largely dominated by men. She said women are working to close the gap through mentoring and various innovative initiatives. The association is also encouraging female artisans to take part in its activities.

A professor of building and registered builder, Prof. Kolapo Eleka, identified ethical lapses and poor professional standards as major causes of building collapse. He urged regulatory bodies to strengthen monitoring and remove unqualified practitioners from the industry. He also called on the government to support local production of building materials to reduce costs.

The immediate past chairperson, Builder Margaret Sati-Shuarka, listed achievements of her tenure, including the launch of the association’s website and its maiden online journal. She urged the new leadership to uphold professional excellence, build partnerships and mentor young female builders for the future of the association.

Photo credit: Punch Newspaper