Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development Abdullahi Tijjani Gwarzo has urged stakeholders in construction industry to invest in initiatives that can encourage gender equality and creates an environment where women can excel.
The minister spoke at a conference hosted by Nigeria Institute of Quantity Surveyors on the theme, ‘ARe – SuRe – Gender Diversification of Construction Industry Workforce: Attracting, Recruiting, Supporting, and Retaining Women Graduates’.
The conference was aimed at understanding the obstacles hindering women from taking up employment in the construction workforce in Nigeria.
According to Gwarzo, women bring unique skills, perspectives and problem solving abilities that can enhance construction projects, promote sustainable practice and foster a collaborative working environment.
He noted that the conference was a significant platform to address the longstanding underrepresentation of women in the construction sector, adding that embracing diversity means upholding fairness and equality while it will unlock a wealth of untapped potential to drive the industry forward.
The minister therefore called on the participants to explore strategies and initiatives that will foster a more inclusive and equitable workforce that will harness the immense potential that women can bring into the sector.
He also commended the organisers of the conference for aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda on inclusivity, saying it will reshape the industry, and foster a culture of inclusivity, respect and opportunity.
On his part, the chairman of the conference, Professor Muhammad Mainoma, Vice Chancellor of Prime University, Abuja, said that community engagement and outreach are essential aspects of promoting gender diversification in the construction industry workforce.
Mainoma further stated that leadership commitment is vital to set the tone for the entire industry and create an environment where all employees feel valued, respected and empowered to succeed.
Housing Minister advocates greater role for women in construction industry
