LAGOS/Nigeria: Nigeria’s construction sector is poised for exponential growth as it embraces international collaboration to drive innovation and development. The annual gathering, “Big 5 Construct Nigeria,” opened its doors yesterday at the prestigious Landmark Centre in Lagos, marking a significant milestone in the industry’s progress. The event, running until September 7, 2023, serves as a platform where local and international companies unite to support the evolution of both upcoming and ongoing projects.
Distinguished guests graced the event’s inauguration, including the Vice President of the International Facility Management Association, who was joined by Irene Oyarekhua, Chief Representative – Nigeria, Global Markets Sector at the Dubai Chamber; Barbara Lehninger, Commercial Counsellor at the Austrian Embassy; and Ben Greenish, Senior Vice President – Construction at dmg events.
Greenish expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “We are thrilled to open this year’s Big 5 Construct Nigeria to facilitate 8,000 buyers the chance to meet with exhibitors and procure cutting-edge construction materials, equipment, and services to streamline the supply chain and contribute to project efficiency. The event presents innovative technologies and sustainable practices, offering construction professionals in Nigeria the opportunity to readily integrate these solutions for the enhancement of their ongoing projects.”
The event showcases groundbreaking products and services spanning various construction sectors, from building interiors, finishes, materials, and tools to HVAC R, solar solutions, urban design landscaping, MEP services, digital construction, smart buildings, and more. With participation from over 140 exhibitors representing 25 countries, including Nigeria, Germany, Belgium, Italy, UAE, Austria, Poland, Singapore, Lebanon, and Saudi Arabia, Big 5 Construct Nigeria promises a vibrant platform for international business engagements.
A Section of Participants at the Opening
Among the Nigerian exhibitors, Cormart Construction Chemicals presents innovative solutions for construction chemical products, while CDK Industries showcases its new collection of porcelain tiles designed to transform interior spaces. Lagos-based JMG highlights its holistic approach called ‘from power to plug,’ emphasizing expertise in power, cooling, mobility, and air compressors.
From Europe, AGRU from Austria presents semi-finished products and technologically optimized injection-moulded fittings, while BRUCHA exhibits panels for constructing cold and freezer warehouses, large-scale industrial, and agricultural buildings. Spain’s HIDROSTANK offers 100% recycled polypropylene pull boxes, designed to expedite execution and reduce logistics, manpower, and machinery through their Nigerian distributor, WNM Limited. France’s Saint-Gobain showcases light and sustainable construction products, while Germany’s MASA specializes in the design and production of plants and machinery for the building materials industry. Additionally, BAUER exhibits its construction and machinery manufacturing expertise.
Companies from the Middle East also make their mark, with Saudi Arabian exhibitor Al Kuhaimi Metal Industries showcasing metal doors for industrial, security, and military applications. Meanwhile, Roofings Middle East from the UAE supplies pre-engineered steel buildings and sandwich panels in the GCC and African markets.
The event hosts CPD-accredited Industry Talks, featuring esteemed speakers who delve into crucial topics. Taiwo AIYEPE, Principal Architect at Lagos State Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, discusses design considerations in tropical climates, while Dr. Iyanda Olukunle A, Founder and CEO of BROOT Consulting, emphasizes the significance of design in shaping the future of construction. Architect Patrick Ogunleye from the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) at the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing explores innovation and efficiency as keys to optimal productivity. Dr. Ibikunle Dashur, President and CEO of CONSTRUCT MACHE GROUP, shares insights on the importance of collaborative working in construction.
A panel discussion on the future of project management, moderated by Oluwalobamise Orafidiya, Junior Project Manager at the Project Management Institute, features prominent panelists including Gbemi Ibrahim, Editorial Anchor and Head of Workforce Management and Academy at the Nigerian Economic Summit Group; Joel Makinde, Vice President of Social Good Initiatives at the Project Management Institute; and Emmanuel Williams, COO of the Critical Infrastructure Resilience Company.
The event offers a series of CPD Talks that delve deeper into efficient project management, technology, architecture & design, and facilities management.
In his concluding remarks, Greenish emphasizes, “Big 5 Construct Nigeria offers inspiration, education, and affiliation, with ample opportunities to connect, share ideas and ultimately realize the full potential of Nigeria’s thriving construction sector.”
Big 5 Construct Nigeria proudly acknowledges CDK Industries as the Platinum Sponsor and Sana Group as the Lanyard Sponsor, with support from esteemed associations and organizations, including The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS), BIM Africa, Project Management Institute (PMI), and OSH Association.
Entry is free for industry professionals, with a strict age restriction prohibiting visitors under the age of 18. For more information and registration, please visit www.thebig5constructnigeria.com.
