Nigeria's Housing Minister Calls for Built Environment Regulation

On July 13, 2026, Engr Muttaqha Rabe Darma, the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, declared the necessity for proper regulation of Nigeria's built environment industry to enhance safety and improve standards. During a meeting with the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), represented by Engr Prof Sadiq Zubair Abubakar, Darma expressed appreciation for the visit and highlighted the critical role of engineering professionals in advancing Nigeria's housing infrastructure agenda.

He noted that effective regulation could significantly contribute to Nigeria's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The Minister announced plans to present a policy framework later in the month to address issues such as building collapses and quackery, emphasizing the importance of stakeholder involvement in the consultation process.

Additionally, he mentioned the upcoming 34th Engineering Assembly, which will focus on public safety and regulatory compliance, and will accommodate both physical and virtual participation.