The Minister of Housing, Lands and Urban Development, Mr. Nduese Essien, has urged the National Assembly to accelerate the passage of housing sector bills before it, noting that without strong legal framework, the dream of having a robust housing sector cannot be achieved.

Essien who was speaking recently at a national dialogue on building collapse in Abuja, warned that the federal government will no longer tolerate the incessant collapse of buildings and the growing threat posed to lives and property by the activities of criminally minded builders and developers in the country.

He advised Nigerians to desist from changing approved building plans and hiring quacks to design and build houses for them, while also appealing to block molders to adhere to the standard mixture in the production of blocks.

“What our country needs at this critical moment is the force of courage, an unwavering commitment for common good and undying resolve to do what is right. In this new deal, manufacturers of building materials, surveyors, craftsmen, engineers and allied professionals must carry out their operations with utmost proficiency and regard for global best standard,” he said.

The minister urged stakeholders to preview state of building construction in the country, identify lapses in professional responsibilities and areas of capacity building, ensure enforcement of building code and also draw up specific blueprint to stop building collapse.