The Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB) has inducted 50 graduates from the Building Department, School of Environmental Technology, Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), into the grade of Graduate Membership during the department’s 6th induction ceremony.

The ceremony, themed “Empowering the Next Generation of Builders: Aligning Academic Learning with Professional Vision and Industry Standards,” marked a significant milestone for the fresh graduates as they transition from academic learning to professional practice in the building industry.

In his welcome address, the Head of Building Department, FUTA, Bldr. (Dr.) Olaniyi Alake (MNIOB), expressed appreciation to NIOB for the honour and charged the inductees to be worthy ambassadors of both the institution and the professional body, while the Chairman, NIOB Ondo State Chapter Bldr. Oladele Omonagbe (MNIOB) emphasized the responsibility that comes with membership in the prestigious institute and the expectation that the new members would uphold the values and standards for which FUTA and NIOB are known.

The Vice Chancellor of FUTA, Prof. Adenike Oladiji, ably represented by the University Registrar, Mr. C. O. Adeleye, thanked the department and the institute for their support towards the growth of the profession and advancing research in the institution. The Vice Chancellor’s representative commended the strong partnership between the university and NIOB, noting that such collaboration enhances the quality of graduates and strengthens the building profession in Nigeria.

Delivering one of the keynote addresses, Bldr. Jude Inobemhe (MNIOB), Ondo State Coordinator of the Association of Young Builders (AoYB) and Honorary Secretary of NIOB Ondo State Chapter, challenged the inductees to embrace global best practices as they enter the field. “The building industry is evolving rapidly, and you must position yourselves at the forefront of this transformation,” he told the new members.

Bldr. Inobemhe urged the graduates to focus on solution-driven tasks and explore various sub-branches within the built environment while leveraging the institute’s affiliations with international bodies such as the American Concrete Institute (ACI) and the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB). He emphasized that these partnerships provide young builders with access to global knowledge and professional development opportunities that can accelerate their careers.

Highlighting the achievements of past department graduates, the keynote speaker cited inspiring examples of alumni who have made their mark in the industry, including one alumnus currently working as part of the NASA team in the United States. This success story, he noted, demonstrates the limitless possibilities available to graduates who combine their academic foundation with professional excellence and innovative thinking.

Bldr. Inobemhe also disclosed his proposed project in health and safety that adopts smart technology through artificial intelligence and machine learning, demonstrating the innovative directions available to young builders today. He encouraged the inductees to develop interest in cutting-edge areas such as renewable technology, systems automation, industrialized construction systems, and net-zero materials adoption. These emerging fields, he explained, represent the future of sustainable building practice and offer tremendous opportunities for career growth and meaningful contribution to addressing global environmental challenges.

In a major announcement that drew applause from the audience, Bldr. Inobemhe revealed plans currently under implementation by the AoYB under his leadership to connect the inductees with industry experts for apprenticeship and mentoring.

According to the innovative programme structure, every two inductees will be assigned to one mentor for apprenticeship based on their specific areas of interest.

“This mentorship initiative is designed to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical industry experience,” he explained. “We want to ensure that every young builder has access to guidance and support as they navigate their early career.”

The induction ceremony underscored NIOB’s commitment to maintaining high professional standards in the building industry while equipping young professionals with the tools, knowledge, and networks necessary to excel in an increasingly competitive and technology-driven field. The event brought together academic staff, industry practitioners, and senior members of the institute, creating an atmosphere of celebration and professional commitment.

The NIOB National President, Bldr. Bimbo Kolade (MNIOB), ably represented by the Registrar of NIOB, Bldr. Adebayo Adeshina (MNIOB), conducted the induction exercise and administered the oath to the new members.

In his remarks, Bldr. Adeshina encouraged the inductees to embrace industry best practices and maintain the high standards expected of NIOB members. He commended the effort and leadership of the Association of Young Builders at the state level, headed by Bldr. Jude Inobemhe (MNIOB), and appreciated his innovative approach towards preparing the inductees for industry practice.

The Registrar noted that such forward-thinking initiatives are essential for building a strong pipeline of competent professionals who can drive the industry forward.

As the 50 new graduate members take their first steps into professional practice, they carry with them not only their academic credentials but also the promise of mentorship, international exposure, and the opportunity to contribute to transforming Nigeria’s built environment through innovation and adherence to global best practices.

The ceremony concluded with the inductees taking their professional oath, pledging to uphold the ethics and standards of the building profession as they embark on their careers.