Promoting Responsible Building Facility Management in Nigeria
In a significant legislative move, the House of Representatives has introduced a bill aimed at establishing the Nigerian Institute of Facilities Management, earning praise from stakeholders within the building sector. This bill represents a pivotal step towards ensuring the responsible care, maintenance, and management of building facilities within both the public and private sectors of Nigeria.
The Sponsor and Its Purpose
The bill, sponsored by Hon. Philip Agbese, a dedicated member representing the Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency of Benue State, has far-reaching objectives. It seeks to equip professionals in the field of facility management with the necessary knowledge and expertise to oversee the maintenance and preservation of building facilities. By doing so, the bill aims to prevent the deterioration of these critical infrastructure assets over time.
The Role of Facility Management
One of the prominent voices supporting this bill is Paul Erubami, the President of the Associations of Facilities Management Practitioners of Nigeria (AFMPN). During a recent media address at the National Assembly in Abuja, Erubami emphasized the significance of facility management in national infrastructure development. He highlighted how this bill will embed the concept of facility management into the process, ensuring that it becomes a fundamental aspect of infrastructure planning and execution.
Erubami elucidated that AFMPN is responsible for training, equipping, and capacity-building for facilities managers across the country. Their vision is to see the principles of facility management incorporated into the public and private sectors of Nigerian leadership and public administration.
Ensuring Longevity and Value
According to Erubami, the bill’s core aim is to ensure that facilities are planned, designed, and delivered with the principles of facility management embedded in them. This proactive approach will enable these structures to last longer and serve their intended purposes effectively. The bill essentially bridges the gap that often exists after the construction and commissioning of facilities, providing professional guidance and support for their sustainable operation and management.
Key Distinction
It’s crucial to differentiate between the Land Use Act and the Facilities Management Bill. While the former pertains to land ownership and transfer, the latter focuses on the maintenance, care, and management of the buildings or infrastructure situated on the land. This distinction ensures that the bill addresses a vital aspect of infrastructure management that is often overlooked.
The Broad Impact
Hon. Philip Agbese, the Deputy Spokesperson of the House and sponsor of the bill, emphasized the 10th Assembly’s commitment to enacting laws that enhance the lives of Nigerians. He stressed that housing is a matter that impacts everyone, regardless of age, wealth, or status. The bill’s benefits extend not only to stakeholders but also to lawmakers, the entire Nigerian population, and even to Agbese himself.
Agbese reminded the stakeholders that every individual lives or works in a building, and nobody desires to see their building collapse or deteriorate. This bill aims to ensure the quality and safety of buildings for all Nigerians, contributing to the overall well-being of the nation.
A Call for Support
In conclusion, this bill represents a monumental step towards promoting responsible building facility management in Nigeria. It seeks to safeguard the country’s infrastructure, ensure the longevity of its buildings, and enhance the quality of life for all its citizens. The support of stakeholders, professional bodies, and associations within the building sector is essential for the success of this critical legislative effort. As Hon. Philip Agbese urged, let us join together and pray for the success of the 10th Assembly as they continue to craft laws that have a direct and positive impact on the country’s citizens.
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