The Association of Facilities Management Practitioners, Nigeria (AFMPN) has expressed concern over the rising impact of climate change and natural disasters on infrastructure, emphasizing that sustainable maintenance practices can mitigate these effects. During the 3rd Annual AFMPN Conference in Abuja, themed “The Maintenance Economy and the Built Environment: The Role of Facility Management,” AFMPN President Paul Erubami stressed the critical role of maintenance in supporting economic growth, reducing environmental impact, and fortifying infrastructure resilience.
Erubami underscored that a shift towards preserving and upgrading existing infrastructure, rather than solely focusing on new construction, is gaining global traction as an eco-friendly, cost-effective model. “By enhancing current assets, we extend their lifespan, achieve substantial cost savings, and reduce environmental impacts,” he stated. This maintenance-focused approach, he added, aligns with international trends toward sustainability and a “culture of upkeep and preservation.”
Highlighting the economic benefits, Erubami pointed out that regular maintenance not only conserves resources but also generates employment. Skilled labor required for facility upkeep stimulates local economies, providing good-paying jobs and opportunities for professional growth. According to AFMPN, infrastructure maintenance can become an economic driver, attracting investment and enhancing the quality of life in communities.
Erubami noted that well-maintained infrastructure is particularly crucial as Nigeria faces more frequent natural disasters and climate-related challenges. He emphasized that proactive maintenance strategies enhance the resilience and recovery potential of facilities, helping communities to maintain continuity in essential services during crises. “The maintenance economy is foundational to economic stability and community safety, ensuring assets remain durable and disaster-resistant,” he said.
Additionally, AFMPN will hold the Facility Management MasterCraft Diploma Graduation Ceremony at the University of Lagos on December 14, 2024. This event will celebrate graduates who have completed specialized training in facility management, equipping them with skills to contribute to Nigeria’s evolving maintenance economy and strengthen the built environment against climate challenges.
