Let me start by congratulating the Head of Building Research Department, Abuja unit Engr. Dr. Jibril Sule, members of the Fire Safety Section, the workshop Planning Committee and the entire staff of the Building Research Department for organizing this National Fire Workshop with the theme “Fire Safety Management in Nigerian Markets: Challenges and Pragmatic Solutions”.
Taking a look at the theme, one can say that the theme is timely and very realistic as it seeks concrete solutions towards eradicating incessant fire incidence in Nigerian market. This will not only enhance the performance of the sector but also boost the economy of the country.
In line with the institute mandate on capacity building for professionals and stakeholders in the built environment, the institute has over the years organized various annual international workshops and technical conferences on topical issues with primary objective of raising the awareness of stakeholders in the construction industry and the general public in order to chart future action plans for the industry and Nigeria.
There has indeed been positive impact of previous NBRRI workshops as topical issues are brought to the front burner with the primary objective of raising the awareness of stakeholders in the construction industry and the general public toward fashioning out action plans for our country’s growth.
Let me use this medium to commend our able Research Officers for striving towards actualizing the institute’s mandates through its various Research and Development activities.
At this juncture, I would want to urge NBRRI not to rest on its oars but strive more towards addressing other critical issues that are begging for solution in the building and road sectors of the Nigerian economy.
Let me assure all the research officers that as a DG/CEO, I will continue to support and provide conducive environment for research activities thereby achieving the institute vision, mission and mandates which are designed to make the institute a research center of global repute and standard.
May I use this opportunity to thank the Honourable Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Dr Ogbonnaya Onu, the Minister of State, Barr. Mohammed Abdullahi Hassan, the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Sunday E. Akpan for their support and cooperation.
I will also like to appreciate the Chairperson, Senate Committee on Science and Technology Senator Uche Lilian Ekwunife and the Chairman House Committee on Research Institute, Hon Olaide Adewale Akinremi for their contributions, support and encouragement to see the growth of NBRRI at all time.
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, I encourage all participants and stakeholders present to pay attention to discuss issues that will eradicate incessant fire incidences in the country. Once more, I wish you all very fruitful deliberations.
Thank you all.
Prof. Samson Duna
Director General/Chief Executive Officer,
Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute (NBRRI).