So the second I decided to build my studio in Nigeria I knew the only way I could get it done was to build it myself. I did not hire a builder, architect or “engineer” for several good reasons.
The fastest way Nigerians in the diaspora get ripped off is when they trust a contractor, family member or friend to build for them, it never ends well
They end up hijacking your property, charge you 10x the amount for cheap building materials (Nigeria is dumping grounds for cheap and dangerous Chinese products), use outdated building designs and unpaid labor, most of the time they outright abandon your project after milking you for as much money as they can.
I am building environmentally friendly and energy efficient, using plumbing and electrical materials imported from California, meeting California Consumer Code for quality.
I employ labor and source building materials like cement, sand, gravel, wood and steel locally. #JujuFilmsStudios
Just an idea.
This problem of diasporan Africans needing competent, reliable workers must be a business oppurtunity. Why don’y you set up an agency to act as the trusted go between local tradesmen and diasporans?
Charging a fee for vetting and project management should be profitable, if not they can’t complain about being ripped off.
How about setting up directory of trusted, relaible and competent tradesmen? What ever your pain points are, I am sure others have the same issue
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It is more headache than its worth breaking those cultural barriers. Nigeria is the most tribalistic country in the world. We fought a war in the 60s to settle our differences but failed to understand the Colonial Masters doctrine of divide and conquer so we are more divided than ever before while they ship our resources away.
Am hoping my “how to” documentary will lead to the consultations you suggested.
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How does mudbrick go in Nigeria?
https://electronicintifada.net/content/gaza-struggles-lack-shelter-caused-two-israeli-wars/14164
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Mud bricks adobe homes work great in the north and most parts of Nigeria in the summer as it keeps the house cool.
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