Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has emphasized the importance of collaborating with Architects and other professionals in the built industry, stating that such collaboration is essential to ensure the state’s infrastructure and urban planning meet sustainability and innovation.
The Governor, who made this remark today at the 6th Lecture of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), at Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC), Victoria Island, Lagos, stated that Architecture shapes the environment in which people live, work, and thrive.
According to Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by his deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat noted that: “As Lagos State grows as a megacity and economic hub, fostering collaborations with professionals like you ensures that our infrastructure and urban planning meet the highest standards of sustainability and innovation that would ultimately ensure that we create a Lagos that is functional, beautiful, safe, and inclusive for all.”
He reaffirmed that architecture is a cornerstone of sustainable national development, which influences economic growth, social well-being, and environmental stewardship.
The Governor said that in Lagos State, his administration recognizes the critical role that architects play in transforming the state’s urban landscape into a model of innovation, resilience, and inclusiveness, urged professionals like architects to always speak when it’s necessary by ensuring that the right things are done
“Perception has been that civilisation can only be sustained if the people maintain a decent environment that God has given to humanity, which is meant to be beautiful, but must be influenced by the relevant professionals in the country,” said Sanwo-Olu, who also commended Nigerian Institute of Architects for organizing the lecture series and commitment to excellence, sharing knowledge and visionary ideas.
He therefore encouraged active engagement and idea-sharing to push the boundaries of architectural excellence.
Later in her lecture, titled “Harmony in Diversity, “the first female President of the Institute, and retired Permanent Secretary in the Lagos State Public Service, Arc. Mrs. Olubukunola Ejiwunmi called on Nigerians to advocate for policies that value sustainability, equity, and cultural integrity.
She added that, harmony is not just a passive ideal; “but it is an active pursuit that recognizes that we listen deeply, design purposely and lead courageously”, adding that, by so doing, they not only fulfil their roles as architects but also, their responsibilities as stewardship of a nation too richly diverse to be divided.
While urging that, as architects, they must not just build with concrete and steel, but with conviction and compassion, the guest lecturer emphasized that they must always pursue harmony in diversity, not only as a slogan, but also as a professional creed.
In her welcome address, the President, Arc. Mobolaji Adeniyi (FNIA) stated that the annual ‘Distinguished Lecture Series’ is a celebration of excellence in architecture, adding that the lectures are given by the institute’s Past Presidents as a tradition.
She described the topic of the lecture, “Harmony in Diversity, as timely and apt, stressing that it will undoubtedly inspire and challenge architects to leverage their diversity to build a better future.
