FOCI Urges Government to Prioritize Road and Building Projects to Create Jobs

The Federation of Construction Industry (FOCI) has urged governments at all levels to place greater emphasis on road rehabilitation, construction, and the building sector as a means of engaging the growing population of unemployed Nigerian youths.

FOCI President, Chief Vincent Barrah, made the call while addressing newsmen in Abuja, stressing that the construction sector remains the only industry capable of absorbing large numbers of job seekers while also boosting socio-economic activities across the country.

According to him, addressing the challenges facing Nigerian youths is crucial to resolving the prevailing security crisis. He commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, for initiating massive construction projects in the capital, noting that such initiatives have transformed Abuja and provided employment opportunities for thousands of young people who might otherwise have become a burden in the six area councils.

Chief Barrah also appealed to government agencies to consistently engage qualified professionals for quality project delivery, warning that the involvement of quacks has been the major cause of poor project implementation. He further stressed the importance of government adhering to agreements and avoiding unnecessary contract terminations.

In his remarks, the Managing Director of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Mr. Oluwaseun Faleye, assured that the Federal Government remains committed to protecting and safeguarding workers’ rights and welfare. He encouraged all stakeholders in the construction industry to foster safe and secure workplaces where employees can perform with confidence.