Minister Calls for ‘Dispute-Free’ Construction Industry
Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Dangiwa, has reiterated the commitment of the Federal Government to fostering a dispute-free environment in Nigeria’s construction industry.
The Minister made this assertion while receiving members of the Institute of Construction Industry Arbitrators (ICIArb), at the Ministry’s Headquarters in Abuja today.
The Institute of Construction Industry Arbitrators (ICIArb), is dedicated to resolving disputes in Nigeria’s construction sector.
The minister acknowledged the institute’s expertise in alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, saying that it offers a robust framework for resolving disputes in a timely, cost-effective, and amicable manner.
“By promoting a culture of dispute-free construction, we can ensure that our housing and infrastructure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality,” he stated.
Dangiwa made reference to the approval for the insertion of the ICIArb arbitration clause in building contracts during the 12th Meeting of the National Council on Lands, Housing, and Urban Development held in Kaduna State, saying it was a notable milestone in the collective efforts to streamline dispute resolution mechanisms in the industry.
According to the Minister, the clause applies to building contracts, tenancy agreements, leases, and facility management contracts to reduce litigation and ensure smoother project execution.
He noted that bureaucracy and contractors prioritizing financial gains over project completion often lead to cost overruns and budget inefficiencies, assuring that the ministry was implementing strategies to ensure timely project execution and delivery.
He called for stronger partnerships among relevant stakeholders to create enabling environment, promote capacity-building initiatives and public awareness to ensure excellence and efficiency in the industry.
Speaking earlier, the President of the ICIArb, Chief Felix Okereke Onyeri, requested partnership with Ministry in order to promote seamless dispute resolution culture in the housing sector.
He sought the Minister’s support in implementing the Institute’s arbitration clause in building contracts, as approved by the 12th National Council on Lands, Housing and Urban Development; and as well, offered collaboration to ensure compliance to the content of the clause by ministries and agencies.
