Nigerian institute of Architects Commit to Tackling Building Collapses and Advocating for Sustainable Urban Development

By Emem Julius, Calabar

The Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), alongside other key players in the building industry, has pledged to address the alarming trend of building collapses in Nigeria. This commitment was expressed at the second convention of the Nigerian Institute of Architects, Cross River State Chapter, held on November 7, 2024. Themed “Architects and Architecture in Sustainable Urban Development: The Role of Architects in the Value Chain,” the event highlighted the urgent need for sustainable and safe building practices to meet the demands of rapid urbanization and environmental challenges.

During his opening remarks, Alaba Abiodun Oduniyi, Chairman of the NIA Cross River State Chapter, emphasized the importance of engaging qualified architects to mitigate building collapses. Oduniyi stressed that for meaningful change, both government and private individuals must ensure that projects are managed by registered architects and other certified professionals within the industry.

“Our convention is a vital platform where we not only come together as professionals but also engage in meaningful discussions that set new directions for architecture in Nigeria,” said Oduniyi. “The theme of this year’s Nigerian institute of Architects convention could not be more relevant. In a time when urbanization is accelerating, and climate change poses numerous challenges, architects have a responsibility to integrate design, technology, and environmental stewardship into their projects. This way, we can create spaces that are not only functional and beautiful but also sustainable for generations to come,” he added.

Oduniyi highlighted that this convention presents a unique opportunity for architects to reflect on their roles and assess how they can contribute to national and global discussions on sustainable development. Architects, he noted, are uniquely positioned to shape the future of urban landscapes, ensuring that the buildings and spaces they design not only meet immediate needs but also align with broader environmental goals.

Building Industry Leaders Call for Professional Expertise

Also attending the event was Cross River State Commissioner for Lands, Hon. Francis Ekpeyong, who praised the NIA for the successful organization of their second convention. He reinforced the idea that architects are essential leaders within the building industry, as their involvement from the planning phase through completion ensures structural integrity and safety.

“When every building project is managed by a team of certified professionals, including architects and engineers, incidents of building collapse will cease to be a problem,” Ekpeyong stated. He added that the Cross River State government intends to work closely with the NIA and other industry bodies to enforce regulations that mandate professional oversight on all projects, whether undertaken by private individuals or government entities.

Ekpeyong warned that non-professional involvement in the building sector leads to substandard construction, which has repeatedly resulted in tragic building collapses. He assured the audience that the government would enforce stricter regulations, ensuring that all construction projects are overseen by licensed professionals to maintain high standards in building practices.

Architects as Guardians of Building Safety and Sustainability

One of the event’s attendees, Abigail Effiom, shared insights into the critical role architects play in any construction project. According to Effiom, architects are responsible for developing a project from inception through to its completion. They create the blueprints, ensure the structure meets safety and design standards, and oversee its construction. “An architect’s involvement is crucial at every stage of a building project,” Effiom noted. “When architects lead the design and planning process, there is a strong assurance that the building will not only be structurally sound but also reflect the intended aesthetic and functional goals.”

Effiom emphasized that when architects work in tandem with qualified engineers and contractors, the risk of building failure is minimized. This collaborative approach, she explained, is essential to delivering durable structures and reducing the incidence of building collapses in Nigeria.

Nigerian institute of Architects: Public Education and Awareness on Professional Building Standards

Ukam Patrick, a representative from the Department of Architecture at the University of Calabar, urged the public to recognize the value of involving professional architects and engineers in construction projects. Patrick observed that many building failures occur due to the widespread practice of hiring unqualified individuals to oversee complex projects. He urged Nigerians to prioritize safety by working with professionals who are trained in structural design and project management.

“Every individual who plans to construct a building, whether residential, commercial, or industrial, should understand the importance of hiring architects and other experts,” Patrick asserted. He argued that public awareness campaigns could help in educating people about the long-term benefits of professional oversight in construction. Such campaigns could prevent unsafe practices and promote the creation of resilient buildings that meet regulatory standards.

The Larger Picture: Architects’ Role in Sustainable Urban Development

The convention also underscored the broader role of architects beyond ensuring safe construction practices. Participants discussed how architects can contribute to sustainable urban development by integrating eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient designs, and innovative technologies into their projects. Oduniyi and other speakers emphasized that architects must advocate for practices that reduce environmental impact, such as using renewable resources and designing buildings that are adaptable to future needs.

Oduniyi highlighted that architects, through careful design choices, can reduce the carbon footprint of urban developments and contribute to a greener future. He encouraged architects to adopt a holistic approach to their work, considering not only the aesthetic and functional aspects of their designs but also their environmental impact. “In addressing climate change, architects play a unique role,” he stated. “We have the tools and expertise to design cities that balance human needs with environmental sustainability, and we must commit to this goal.”

 Building a Collaborative Future

In closing, Oduniyi expressed optimism about the future of architecture in Nigeria, particularly within Cross River State, where the government and industry bodies like the NIA are working closely to address building safety and environmental challenges. He called for continued collaboration among architects, engineers, government officials, and the public to create a safer, more sustainable built environment.

The convention concluded with a resolution for the NIA to increase advocacy efforts for quality building standards and professional oversight. It was also agreed that the NIA would engage with government bodies to develop stricter regulations on construction practices. By fostering partnerships with stakeholders and educating the public, the Nigerian institute of Architects  hopes to promote a culture of safety, sustainabilityNigerian institute of Architects In CRS to tackle collapse buildings, and innovation in Nigeria’s building industry.

As the convention adjourned, there was a renewed sense of purpose among attendees to tackle the pressing issues of building collapses and environmental sustainability, with a collective commitment to building a resilient and forward-thinking Nigeria.