Climate Change: Stakeholders Seek Afrocentric Architecture

Stakeholders have stressed that the unprecedented activities of climate change all over the world has brought the need for Africa to focus on the area of Afrocentric Architecture.

The president of the Institute, Arc Enyi Ben-Eboh, stated this at the 63rd Annual General Meeting of Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) in Abuja.

Eboh said that the theme of this year’s conference is “Transition, Transformation, Sustainable Futures” and is borne out of the need for Architects to be at the forefront of the climate change discussion.

He said, “We are all witnesses to the extreme and often unprecedented climate activities taking place around the world and we must see what we can do to mitigate the negative consequences of our industry in this regard.

“The global status report for buildings and construction released at the latest round of climate talks held in Egypt in 2022, COP27 revealed that our sector accounted for over 34 per cent of energy demand and about 37 per cent of energy and process-related CO2 emissions in 2021. Through design and proper specifications, we can reduce these numbers appreciably.

“Another area we would be focusing on is in the area of Afrocentric architecture. For too long, we have operated under the influence of styles and cultures that are alien to our unique and often diverse cultures, climate, and art forms.

“If we must remain relevant within the architectural space, we must begin to evolve sustainable ways of providing shelter that are uniquely ours and meet all indices of sustainability while satisfying function and durability. With the high cost of energy these days, we cannot afford designs that would be energy guzzling and make running costs quite huge while also giving due consideration to the environment.”

Meanwhile, the president elect of NIA, Arc Mobolaji Adeniyi said that as we navigate the current era of rapid urbanisation, environmental challenges, and technological advancements, it is crucial that architects play a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable future.

“Our actions matter, and the decisions we make today will have a profound impact on generations to come. It is through forums like this that we can collectively explore ways to address these challenges, leveraging our creative abilities and technical expertise to develop innovative solutions.”