The Nigeria Institute of Architects (NIA) has partnered with the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development to design and construct 100 housing units in every local council across the country.
This was disclosed by NIA 2nd Vice President, Wogu-Ogbonna, during a press conference in Abuja as part programme to celebrate its 65 years anniversary. He explained that the partnership was part of the government moves to ensure affordable housing delivery.
NIA past president, Mrs Olubukunola Ejiwunmi, noted that the government was collaborating with them to make affordable housing a reality. She added that Lagos State government is also engaging all professionals in built environment.
On the collapse building issue, she blamed the development on unregistered and unqualified people engaged by the public, describing the situation as unfortunate and called for stringent measures to check the trend in the industry.
NIA President, Mrs Mobolaji Adeniyi, said the professional body has come a long way in the built environment through endurance, resilience in professionalism. She said those to be honoured during their anniversary are the former President Goodluck Jonathan, former Vice presidents, late Dr Alex Ekwueme, and Namadi Sambo, as well as Speaker, House of Representatives, and Niger State Governor for their contributions to architectural space in the country.
MEANWHILE, Adeniyi has urged members to promote science and technology, invest in capacity building, upgrade curricula to match global standards, and encourage research and innovation.
Adeniyi, at the 65 years Founders’ Anniversary celebration in Abuja, said that they must also work to enhance the role of architects within public institutions, ensuring that technical expertise informs governance, policy and procurement.
She said, “This is more than a commemoration of age, and it is a tribute to legacy, resilience, and a collective vision that has endured and evolved across generations.
“The NIA was established during Nigeria’s post-independence awakening. From seven visionaries, we have grown into a national body of nearly 15,000 architects, with chapters in every state and the FCT, and influence public policy, and also shape educational standards.”
According to her, “Architects remain underrepresented in public procurement and urban policy formulation. We must correct this. The only way to overcome these challenges is by standing united. Architecture is central to safety, climate resilience, cultural identity and national development.”
She said they will be celebrating outstanding female architects from other countries who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and architectural advancement within their nations.