At a technical training session organized by the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities recently in Abuja, the Executive Secretary NCPWD, Dr. James David Lalu has hinted that Accessibility studies is a Multi-billion Naira industry that could become a major revenue generating sector for Nigeria in the future.
“Our mandate is very wide and that is the reason we need to train many of our Engineers on the dynamics of accessibility” he said.
Lalu also emphasized that the session is not for those that will bury the knowledge but for the practical individuals who will be able to apply the knowledge earned in order to create designs and applications towards changing the narratives in social infrastructure that is inclusive of the overall development of the Nation.
The Commission’s Boss further stated that the new breed of Accessibility Engineers will be spread across various zones of the country to lend their knowledge and improve the architectural standard of public buildings from foundation levels to completions.
He also informed that the Commission has signed a couple of Memoranda of Understanding with some higher institutions to commence the program.
“The University College, Ibadan is one of the Institutions that will be offering a Degree in Accessibility Engineering when the approval is finalized” he disclosed.
The Executive Secretary enjoined the participants to make the best use of the opportunity provided by the training to harness their skills, to build innovative and accessible infrastructure across the country.
He, therefore, seized the occasion to urge the current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to support the capacity building process with adequate funding that will eventually have multiplier effects on the Nigerian economy.
Delivering a lecture on the Overview of the National Accessibility Regulations, and Accessibility Audit procedures, one of the Facilitators, Engr. Ovens Ehimatie highlighted the specific paradigms and measurements expected in building inclusive infrastructure.
He also emphasized that professional bodies such as the COREN should recognize the need to have consultations with Accessibility Engineers for proper practice in the profession.
Ehimatie commended the Commission for deeming it necessary to train Engineers as well as develop curriculum on Accessibility in Nigerian higher institutions.
“I congratulate the Pioneer Executive Secretary, for championing this noble course in order to change the narrative in the construction industry” he added.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Director, Accessibility Department, NCPWD, Engr. Bitrus Sule Dakup enumerated a couple of structural adjustments that the Commission has embarked upon in some public buildings both within and outside the FCT to meet up with the Minimum Accessibility Standard.
He, therefore, reiterated that the Accessibility Department will always be ready to assist organizations, MDAs in making the right decisions in restructuring of public facilities where possible.