75 Nigerians Vie for Lafargeholcim Awards for Sustainable Construction

Ugo Aliogo and Elee Naomi

75 students and professionals are part of the finalists joining 100 other individuals from the Middle East and Africa for the LafargeHolcim regional awards for Sustainable Construction in Nairobi, Kenya this week. The award which is organised by the LafargeHolcim Foundation for sustainable construction is the most significant global competition in sustainable design.

According to a statement issued by the Director Communication, Public Affairs and Sustainable Development, Lafarge Africa Plc, Folashade Ambrose-Medebem said they are excited Nigeria is taking part for the first time as a country and with the impressive turnout of entrants.

He also noted that Nigeria as the home to some of Africa’s fastest growing cities, the competition would promote sustainable projects and concepts the country needs to urgently address its peculiar challenges of urbanization.

He said: “The combined population of Nigeria’s fastest growing cities: Abuja, Benin City, Ibadan, Kaduna, Kano, Lagos, Onitsha and Port Harcourt is expected to swell to 54million by 2030, according to UN Habitat. This edition of the competition is seeking smart and sustainable construction solutions for cities.

“LafargeHolcim’s sponsorship of the awards over the years validates its commitment to sustainability, innovation and architectural excellence. This is a corporate social responsibility initiative geared to ensure that the world builds better.

“All entries from the fields of architecture, urban design and planning, and civil engineering are judged based on the target issues for sustainable construction: Progress, People, Planet, Prosperity and Place. Regional winners in the three categories (Main, Next Generation and Focus) will be awarded a total of USD 330,000. In all USD 2 million in prize money is awarded in each three-year cycle. The LafargeHolcim Awards is open to students, architects, planners, engineers, project owners, builders and construction firms in 90 countries where the LafargeHolcim Group operates.”