NBRRI

Building Research Department

The Building Research Department (BRD) plays a crucial role in advancing the construction industry in Nigeria by spearheading research and development across various aspects of building. The BRD has since the establishment of the Institute on April, 1978 made tremendous efforts towards the realization of its mandates, despite the ever-challenging research environment.

Mandate of the Department

The BRD has the mandate to improve the quality of life of Nigerians in the area of affordable housing and increased empowerment through integrated R&D in building materials and technologies. Specifically, it is required to formulate and execute R&D in the following areas:

  • Research and development of local building materials: The BRD actively explores and promotes the use of readily available, cost-effective, and eco-friendly local materials like laterite bricks and geopolymer concrete.
  • Improving existing materials and construction practices: Through research and testing, the BRD identifies opportunities to refine existing materials and construction methods for enhanced performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
  • Generation of indigenous planning and design guidelines.
  • The development of various alternative building materials and technologies required for their production and application.
  • Technology transfer/skills acquisition and programmes
  • Developing standards and specifications: The BRD contributes to the establishment and implementation of national standards and specifications for building materials and construction practices, ensuring adherence to global benchmarks.
  • Local building and construction materials to determine the most effective and economic means of their utilization
  • Architectural design of building to suit Nigerian climatic conditions with respect to lighting, ventilation, thermal comfort, humidity and noise reduction.
  • Contribution to the development of appropriate standards and building codes for the country.

Division and Sections

The Building Research Department (BRD) consists of the Building Materials, Fire Safety section, Building Physics and Urban Planning section and is one of the key Technical Departments of the Institute.

These activities have presently positioned the Institute as a key player in the national economy, especially in the areas of housing delivery, income generation, poverty reduction, self-reliance and gender sensitivity. As a government parastatal with R & D mandates covering the whole country, the Institute through R & D is expected to be continuously generating and updating data. This has become even more expedient in view of environmental and socio-economic changes; posing serious challenges in the Building Construction Industry.

Contact Us.

For further enquiries about specific research projects, personnel, or services offered by the Building Research Department, please contact us here