Get Guardian on GoogleThe re-elected chairman of the Lagos branch of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) Biodun Fatuyi has raised concerns about the challenges confronting the architectural profession, noting the need for improved support by critical stakeholders especially the government to develop the profession.
He spoke after the emergence of the new executive for the chapter at its 2026 Biennial General Meeting (BGM) in Lagos.
He identified the challenges which include building collapses, regulatory concerns, procurement practices, economic pressures and the complexities of urban development in Lagos.
He reiterated the need for stronger professional advocacy, closer engagement with government and private sector stakeholders, improved professional development opportunities and greater support for younger architects.
He further called for a more dynamic and forward looking profession that embraces innovation, digital transformation, sustainable design principles and smart urbanism, while maintaining the human centred values that define architecture.
The Biennial General Meeting, themed: “The Architect’s Legacy: Honouring Our Past, Our Present and Inspiring Our Future,” brought together members, Fellows, past leaders, senior professionals and other stakeholders to deliberate on the affairs of the Chapter, review its activities and chart a course for the future of the architectural profession in Lagos State.
The newly elected Executive Committee also include the vice chairman, Moniba Odunlami, Adaku Osuagwu-Oguamanam, as General Secretary, Aiyepe Taiwo- Treasurer, Popoola Damilola as welfare Officer and Moshood Akinde as the Public Relations Officer.
Fatuyi expressed gratitude to members for renewing their confidence in his leadership and emphasised the importance of continuity, institutional integrity, professional unity and purposeful leadership in advancing the interests of architects and the built environment.
He noted that the responsibility of the Institute extends beyond the practice of designing buildings, stressing that architects have a critical role to play in shaping sustainable cities, influencing physical planning policies, promoting ethical professional practice and contributing to the overall development of society.
Speaking on the theme of the meeting, the Chairman described architecture as an enduring responsibility, noting that the decisions architects make today will become the physical and cultural inheritance of future generations.
He also emphasised the need to preserve the legacies of past leaders while positioning the profession to respond effectively to emerging opportunities and challenges.
In a keynote address, a member of the NIA, Brenda Unuavworho, highlighted the significance of architectural legacy and the responsibility of the profession to preserve its heritage while preparing for emerging opportunities.
The Chapter expressed confidence that the re-elected Chairman and his new Executive Committee would build on the achievements of previous administrations, strengthen the institutional standing of the Lagos State Chapter, deepen members’ engagement and promote the visibility and relevance of architects in public policy, urban development and the built environment.
The new administration is expected to work collaboratively with the national leadership of the Nigerian Institute of Architects, government institutions, professional bodies, the private sector and other stakeholders to advance the architectural profession and contribute to the development of Lagos State.
