Two delegations of builders, developers and bankers from Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria, recently participated in NAHB’s International Visiting Delegation educational programs at NAHB headquarters in Washington, D.C., to learn more about how American industry professionals build, develop, market and sell their homes and communities.

Prior to the visits, delegation leaders worked with NAHB’s International Department to develop customized educational programs and coursework that addressed each of their city’s particular needs.

The first delegation — from Abuja, the booming western capital of Nigeria with a need for new housing — worked closely with NAHB-approved instructor Tom Stephani, of Custom Construction Concepts, who taught the courses, “How America Builds,” “Land Development, Planning and Site Development” and “Sales and Marketing.”

In addition, the visiting delegation also learned about concrete building systems from Mike Weber, co-chair of the National Council of the Housing Industry — The Leading Suppliers of NAHB.

The second delegation — builders from Lagos, the seventh fastest-growing city in the world — met with NAHB members and staff to learn how to build and market homes so they could better meet the extraordinary demand in Lagos.

Stephani taught the delegation several classes, including “Building Technology: Systems and Interior Finishes,” “Structures andExterior Finishes” and “Business Management for Building Professionals.”    

Following each of the delegations’ visits, the delegation leaders, Marcella Iyitor of Niche PR and Babatunde Malik with the builders from Lagos, indicated that they will continue to bring delegations to NAHB. Comments from the delegates reiterated the value of the educational programs, as did an August article in the Nigerian Tribune.

The International Department is currently developing courses on sustainable green building practices to include in future customized coursework.   

For more information about NAHB’s International Visiting Delegation educational programs, e-mail Susanna Connaughton at NAHB, or call her at 800-368-5242 x8415.