20 Years in Construction: Lessons, Milestones & Challenges with Jamila Faniyi
March 2025 marks 20 years since Jamila Faniyi first stepped into the world of construction—a milestone that speaks to her resilience, expertise, and impact in the industry. From breaking barriers to leading companies, her journey is nothing short of inspiring. In this candid conversation, she shares her career highlights, challenges in the industry, and advice for women looking to build successful careers in construction.
The Journey: From Engineer to Managing Director
Jamila’s career has been defined by pivotal moments that shaped her path. She began her journey in 2005 as an Assistant Planning Engineer at Construction Kaiser Limited. Just three years later, in 2008, she moved into management, a transition that changed everything. Being part of the decision-making team gave her the confidence to drive change and make her voice heard in a male-dominated industry.
In 2010, she took on an even bigger challenge, becoming the pioneer staff at M&E Kaiser Limited. She played a critical role in structuring and launching the company, setting the foundation for what it is today. A decade later, in 2021, she reached another remarkable milestone when she was appointed as the first Managing Director of M&E Kaiser Limited. Leading the company’s growth and development has been one of her proudest achievements.
The Big Challenges in Construction Today
The construction industry is filled with challenges, and Jamila has seen them evolve over the years. Talent acquisition and retention remain a pressing issue, with skilled professionals becoming harder to find and even harder to keep. Inflation has also made material costs unpredictable, making financial planning more complex than ever. Weak judicial systems and contract enforcement gaps create additional hurdles, making it difficult to uphold agreements.
Another major challenge is the reliance on imported materials due to a lack of local production capacity, which increases costs and delays. Funding is another roadblock—without industry-specific financial support at reduced interest rates, growth remains slow. Beyond these, the industry is under pressure to adapt to new technologies, embrace sustainability, and address diversity and inclusion.
Advice for Women in Construction
For women looking to build a career in construction, Jamila believes in the power of learning and adaptability. She emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with people who are more knowledgeable, as growth comes from exposure to expertise. While technical skills are critical, organizational and leadership abilities are just as essential for climbing the corporate ladder.
Confidence is key to overcoming stereotypes, and finding the right mentors can make a world of difference. She also stresses the importance of resilience—staying motivated through challenges and celebrating every win, no matter how small. Networking and staying informed about industry trends open up new opportunities and keep professionals ahead of the curve.
The Challenge of Sourcing Construction Materials
Sourcing materials is one of the toughest aspects of the business. Inflation causes constant price fluctuations, making budgeting difficult. Liquidity issues and inadequate advance payments create financial strain, while quality concerns and environmental impact add another layer of complexity. High transportation costs and inventory management challenges further complicate the process, requiring a strategic approach to procurement and planning.
The Power of Female Mentorship
Having strong female mentors has played a crucial role in Jamila’s journey. She credits Arc. (Mrs.) Jumoke Akinwumi for her straightforward guidance and ability to create opportunities. Her insights into architectural requirements and building standards have been invaluable. Another influential figure in Jamila’s career is Yemi Keri, the first Board Chairperson of M&E Kaiser Limited. A corporate governance expert, Yemi’s mentorship helped Jamila refine her leadership skills and navigate the complexities of managing a growing company.
Final Thoughts
Jamila’s 20-year journey in construction is a testament to the power of perseverance, continuous learning, and strategic leadership. As she continues to lead and inspire, her story serves as motivation for women and professionals looking to leave a mark in the industry. Her advice is clear—be bold, be resilient, and never stop learning.