FG committed to dispute-free construction industry – Minister Dangiwa
The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Dangiwa, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to fostering a dispute-free environment in Nigeria’s construction industry.
Dangiwa made this statement while receiving members of the Institute of Construction Industry Arbitrators (ICIArb) at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
Acknowledging the institute’s expertise in alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, such as arbitration, mediation, and conciliation, Dangiwa emphasized their importance in promoting timely, cost-effective, and amicable resolutions for construction disputes.
“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.
The minister highlighted the recent approval for the inclusion of the ICIArb arbitration clause in building contracts, a milestone decision made at the 12th Meeting of the National Council on Lands, Housing, and Urban Development in Kaduna State. The clause is applicable to building contracts, tenancy agreements, leases, and facility management contracts, aiming to reduce litigation and ensure smoother project execution.
Dangiwa also noted that delays caused by bureaucratic processes and contractors prioritizing financial gains often lead to cost overruns and inefficiencies.
He assured that the ministry is implementing strategies to ensure timely project execution and delivery.
He called for stronger partnerships among stakeholders in the construction sector to create an enabling environment for the industry. Capacity-building initiatives and public awareness campaigns, he said, would drive excellence and efficiency across the sector.
Earlier, Chief Felix Okereke Onyeri, President of the ICIArb, sought the ministry’s support in promoting seamless dispute resolution in the housing sector.
He urged collaboration to implement the ICIArb arbitration clause and ensure compliance with its terms by ministries and agencies.
