-Special Report-
FOCI 69th Annual General Meeting - Construction
Experts Reaffirm Commitment to Quality Service Delivery
Abuja, Nigeria - The Federation of Construction
Industry (FOCI), Nigeria’s leading umbrella body for building and civil
engineering contractors, convened its 69th Annual General Meeting in Abuja with
a resounding message: unwavering commitment to quality service delivery and
fair recognition in the nation’s infrastructure development.
Presiding over the event, Chief Vincent Barrah, President and Chairman of FOCI’s Governing Council, emphasized the enduring legacy and technical excellence of member companies. He highlighted that many roads constructed by FOCI members have remained functional for decades, some lasting 20 to 40 years, underscoring the durability and reliability of their work.
Barrah
called for fairness in the assessment of contractors’ contributions, noting
that despite their proven track record, the industry continues to grapple with
challenges such as contract re-awards, unfavorable conditions, and payment
delays, all of which affect both companies and their workforce.
A key
topic of discussion was the proposed transition from asphalt to concrete roads.
While FOCI members expressed readiness to embrace this innovation, Barrah
cautioned that the shift requires a well-structured plan. He explained that
concrete roads demand different designs, specialized equipment, and retraining
of personnel. The industry, he assured, possesses the manpower and expertise to
adapt, provided there is clarity and fairness in execution.
The
meeting also served as a platform to commend the Federal Capital Territory
Administration (FCTA), led by Minister Nyesom Wike, for acknowledging the high
standards of projects delivered by FOCI members in Abuja. Such recognition,
Barrah noted, boosts morale and reinforces the industry’s commitment to
excellence.
In a
broader context, the AGM addressed the implications of frequent contract
cancellations, warning that such disruptions exacerbate unemployment and could
deepen Nigeria’s security challenges. FOCI urged the Federal Government to
consider the long-term impact of these decisions on both economic stability and
national development.
As the
construction sector navigates evolving demands and policy shifts, FOCI’s 69th
Annual General Meeting reaffirmed the industry's dedication to quality,
innovation, and ethical standards.
The call
for fairness, strategic planning, and government collaboration echoed
throughout the gathering, setting a forward-looking tone for Nigeria’s
infrastructure future.
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