The Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) and other building sector professionals on Thursday, pledged to prioritize solutions to building collapse, environmental challenges, rapid urbanization, and climate change.
At the 2nd NIA Cross River State Chapter convention, held on November 7, 2024, experts converged to address these pressing issues under the theme: “Architects and Architecture in Sustainable Urban Development: Role of Architects in the Value Chain.”
Alaba Abiodun Oduniyi, Chairman, NIA Cross River State Chapter, emphasized that “The only solution to incessant building collapse and sector deficiencies is for governments and individuals to engage registered architects and professionals proficient in the building sector.”
Oduniyi stressed the importance of patronizing registered architects to prevent building collapse and ensure sustainable urban development.
By prioritizing these issues, the NIA and building sector professionals demonstrate their commitment to creating safer, more sustainable, and environmentally conscious built environments in Nigeria.
He said; “This convention serves as a platform where we engage, collaborate and chart new directions for architecture, not just in Cross River State but across the nation.”
“Our theme for this year’s convention is both timely and critical. In an era defined by rapid urbanization and climate change, we stand at the intersection of design, technology and environmental stewardship, tasked with shaping spaces that are not only functional and beautiful, but also sustainable for future generations,” he disclosed.
Oduniyi noted that the convention is an opportunity for NIA to reflect on the responsibilities and explore how they can meaningfully contribute to national and global discourse on sustainable urban development.
The Cross River State Commissioner for Lands; Hon. Francis Ekpeyong commended the State’s NIA for the successful second edition of her convention. He noted that Architects are actually the leaders in the building industry.
He disclosed that when every building has an architect, qualified engineers and all other related professionals handling these projects, there would be no incidents of building collapse.
“We are going to make sure that we work closely with the government to ensure that every individual, groups, local, state and Federal Government engages professional architects to handle projects,” he warned.
