“My vision is clear: to build a Nigeria where the builder is not just seen, but respected, empowered, and celebrated. I will work with policymakers to enshrine builders’ roles in legislation. I will champion continuous professional development and mentorship.
The National Amirah of Al-Mu’minaat (the Believing Women) Organisation, Bldr. Jelilat Oyinlade Abdul Hamid has emerged as the new National Chairman (Chairperson) of the Association of Builders in Public Service (APBS).
Bldr. Abdul Hamid was announced on Thursday, August 21 after the election/sectoral meeting of the Association at Ecumenical Center, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State.
The event was attended by dignitaries, colleagues, members of the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB), and stakeholders from across the country.
Muslim News gathered that the newly elected executive committee led by Bldr. Abdul Hamid will run the affairs of the Association for the next two administrative years.
Other members include Bldr. Zailani Yusuf (Vice Chairman), Bldr. Ugbon Ettete (Secretary), Bldr. Isah Lawan (Ass. Secretary), Bldr. Rev. Dosumu Segun Timothy (Fin. Secretary), Geofry Joseph (Welfare Secretary), Bldr. Sir Chika Okazubie (PRO), Bldr. Ojemudia Patrick (Legal Adviser), Bldr. Ogunleye Olasoji (Ex-Officio), Bldr. Abdulrazaq Alao (Ex-officio and immediate past Chairman), while the position of Treasurer is zoned to the Northwest.
In her inauguration speech, Bldr. Abdul Hamid began with a heartfelt expression of gratitude. According to her:
“I stand before you today with profound humility and immense gratitude as I accept the mantle of leadership as the National Chairperson of Association of Builders in Public Service.
“This moment is not mine alone – it belongs to every builder who has labored with integrity, every professional who has upheld the standards of our noble profession, and every citizen who dreams of a Nigeria built on excellence, safety, and sustainability. I am deeply honored by the trust you have placed in me. I accept this responsibility not as a title, but as a mission—to serve, to elevate, and to transform.”
Reflecting on her career journey, she said:
“For over two decades, I have walked the path of public service – from the bustling corridors of Lagos State Building Control Agency to the vibrant markets of Tejuosho and Oyingbo, from district offices to national conferences. I have seen firsthand the power of builders to shape not just structures, but societies. Today, I pledge to bring that experience, that passion, and that unwavering commitment to this new role.”
The new chairperson defined the mandate of builders in public service as one that goes beyond professionalism.
“As builders in public service, we are more than professionals – we are custodians of public trust. We ensure that homes are safe, schools are sound, hospitals are secure, and cities are resilient. Our work touches lives, protects futures, and anchors development. But we must do more.”
She then outlined the core responsibilities of her leadership:
“We must advocate for the rightful recognition of builders in national policy. We must educate the public on the value of certified professionals. We must innovate through technology, sustainability, and modern practices. We must collaborate across sectors to ensure that every Nigerian benefits from safe, affordable, and dignified infrastructure.”
Casting her vision for the association and the profession at large, Oyinlade said:
“My vision is clear: to build a Nigeria where the builder is not just seen, but respected, empowered, and celebrated. I will work with policymakers to enshrine builders’ roles in legislation. I will champion continuous professional development and mentorship. I will promote safety standards that protect both workers and communities. I will ensure that our voices are heard in every conversation about national development.”
She urged members of the profession to embrace unity in the pursuit of these goals, declaring:
“Let this inauguration be a call, not just to leadership, but to unity. Let us rise above divisions and work together as one body, one profession, one purpose. Let us build bridges, not just of concrete and steel, but of collaboration, trust, and shared vision.”.
Bldr Abdul Hamid expressed appreciation to her colleagues and mentors for their support, saying:
“To the Nigerian Institute of Building, to my colleagues, mentors, and supporters – thank you. Your belief in me is the foundation upon which I will build.” She also addressed the younger generation directly, adding, “To the future generation of builders, know this: your dreams are valid, your skills are vital, and your time is now.”
She concluded her speech with a solemn pledge:
“In closing, I accept this role with reverence, with resolve, and with a heart full of hope. Together, let us build not just structures, but a legacy. Let us build not just for today, but for generations to come. Thank you. God bless the Association of Builders in Public Service (APBS). God bless the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB). God bless the Builders of Nigeria. And God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
The ceremony ended with resounding applause as members of the association, stakeholders, and invited guests embraced the new era of leadership under Bldr. Jelilat Oyinlade Abdul Hamid, a devout Muslimah and Amirah of the Believing Women Organization in Nigeria
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