A past president of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), Olubukunola Ejiwunmi, has urged professionals in the building industry, particularly architects, to make constructive contributions that would enhance sustainable practices.
Ejiwunmi, who made the call at the sixth distinguished lecture of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) entitled: ‘Harmony in diversity’ in Lagos, emphasised the need for architects to design with the intent to promote harmony in the country.
She argued that architects must not just build with concrete and steel, but with conviction and compassion, pursue harmony in diversity, not only as a slogan, but also as a professional creed.
The first female president of NIA said the professionals must amplify under-represented voices; close generational gaps, and integrate regional identities in their professional engagements.
Architectural education and mentorship must instill empathy, cultural awareness, and collaboration. As active citizens, we must advocate for policies that value sustainability, equity, and cultural integrity. Harmony is not a passive ideal; it is an active pursuit. It requires that we listen deeply, design purposefully, and lead courageously,” she said.
For architects to remain relevant, Ejiwunmi challenged NIA to engage in constructive debate, connect young professionals with experienced practitioners and uphold mentorship and national integration.
She reiterated the need to support both small and large firms, integrate regional voices into national discourse, as well as embrace technology, smart design, and sustainable practices and prioritise local content.
Addressing the forum, Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, acknowledged the immense contributions of architects and other professionals to the development of Lagos and Nigeria at large. He urged them to continue partnership with the government towards operating a Lagos that is functional, beautiful and inclusive for all.
Sanwo-Olu, represented by the deputy governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, called for collaboration between architects and other professionals, adding that, ‘Collaboration is essential to ensure the state’s infrastructure and urban planning meet sustainability and innovation.’
He challenged professionals to make contributions towards the development of the industry, warning that the idea that people can build anywhere and anyhow couldn’t be the way to go.
NIA president, Mobolaji Adeniyi, stated that the yearly ‘Distinguished Lecture Series’ is a celebration of excellence in architecture and is delivered by the past presidents.
She said Ejiwunmi’s tenure as president of the institute was marked by innovative initiatives, diligence, and commitment to excellence. According to her, she demonstrated remarkable leadership, travelling extensively to various schools of architecture across the country, mentoring students, and fostering a sense of community among architects.
“Notably, Ejiwunmi served as the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Works and Housing, under the leadership of the then Governor and now President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. “Her experiences in government and expertise have been invaluable to the institute. The lecture is timely and will undoubtedly inspire and challenge us to leverage our diversity to build a better future,” Adeniyi said.
Earlier, the Oniru of Iruland, Oba Abdulwasiu Lawal, expressed appreciation to the NIA for supporting Lagos State through professional contributions, which, he said, accelerated the growth of the state at various stages of policy formulation and implementation.
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