The Niger Delta University (NDU) has recorded a major academic milestone with the induction of its first set of Building graduates into the graduate cadre of the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB). The induction ceremony was held on Friday at the university campus, marking a significant step in the institution’s professional accreditation journey.The event, themed “Building the Future: Innovating, Integrating and Inspiring in the Construction 4.0 Era,” formally admitted the pioneer graduates into Nigeria’s professional building community. It underscored NDU’s growing contribution to the development of skilled manpower for the construction sector.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Acting Head of the Department of Building, Dr. Christopher Belonwu, described the induction as a moment of fulfilment and validation of the department’s vision. He said the department was established to produce competent, ethical, and industry-ready professionals aligned with global best practices.“ The induction of our graduates into the graduate cadre of the Nigerian Institute of Building fills me with immense joy,” Belonwu said. He recalled that the department commenced academic activities during the 2019/2020 session with modest facilities but strong determination to succeed.
According to him, sustained effort, resilience, and commitment from staff and students have now culminated in professional recognition. He commended the students for their perseverance, the lecturers for their dedication, and the university management for its continuous support.
Belonwu urged the inductees to uphold the values of integrity, professionalism, and lifelong learning as ambassadors of the department. He encouraged them to embrace mentorship, innovation, and ethical practice in their careers.“This milestone is more than a ceremony. It is formal recognition of your readiness to join the professional community of builders, with the responsibility to uphold standards and pursue continuous self-development,” he added.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Allen Agih, the Dean of the Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Prof. Sylvester Ebibai, described the occasion as historic, noting that it marked the induction of NDU’s first professionally trained builders. He commended the department for aligning its curriculum with global best practices and accreditation requirements. Prof. Ebibai advised the new graduates to consolidate their academic foundation through hands-on experience and continuous professional growth
.The President of the Nigerian Institute of Building, Mr. Abimbola Kolade, represented by the former Chairman of the NIOB Bayelsa State Chapter, Mr. Ahmed Baba Ahmed, praised NDU for the quality of training provided to the graduates.He urged the inductees to distinguish themselves in the profession by embracing innovation, research, and continuous upskilling. He also encouraged active participation in NIOB programmes to enhance professional exposure and networking.
Also speaking, a former National Publicity Secretary of NIOB, Mr. Akinola Bammeka, highlighted the vast opportunities within the building and construction industry. He noted that success in the profession requires discipline, focus, and consistent effort, while cautioning against distractions that could derail career progress.The induction ceremony reinforces Niger Delta University’s expanding role in producing competent professionals capable of meeting the evolving demands of Nigeria’s construction sector, particularly in the emerging Construction 4.0 era.
