NIA President Calls for Urgent Measures to Ensure Structural Integrity in Lagos

Bennett Oghifo

President of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), Arc. Mobolaji Adeniyi, FNIA, has said there was an urgent need for comprehensive measures to be put in place to ensure building safety.

The NIA president stated this in response to the incessant collapse of buildings in the country, particularly the building that collapsed at Ebute Metta, Lagos, on December 22, 2023.

A statement issued by Adeniyi, said, “It is with deep regret that the Nigerian Institute of Architects addresses the unfortunate incidence of a building collapse which occurred in Ebute Metta, Lagos, on December 22, 2023. The NIA extends deep and heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and the Lagos State Government at this distressing time.

“This incident, occurring yet again in Lagos, emphasises the urgent need for comprehensive measures to be put in place to ensure building safety within the state. We express our sympathy to the affected families, acknowledging the pain and loss they are enduring at this time.

“In response to this tragic incident, as the President of the NIA, I have instructed the Chairman of the Lagos Chapter, Arc. David Majekodunmi, FNIA, to visit the site promptly and report to the Institute with a thorough assessment and situation report.”

She said, “NIA stands ready to collaborate closely with the Lagos State Government, The Building Collapse Prevention Guild (BCPG) and all other relevant Agencies to investigate and address the root cause of these recurring incidents of building collapse and work towards viable solutions to prevent future occurrences.

“This collaborative effort will be aimed at understanding the circumstances leading to these incidents, but also contribute to the development of robust building regulations and standards that prioritize safety within our communities.

“We continue to emphasise to the Government at all levels and the public in general, the need to engage only Registered Architects by our Regulatory body (ARCON) and other qualified professionals to mitigate against the occurrence of building collapse and enforcement of adherence to Industry Standards and Regulations.

“As architects, we bear a collective responsibility to ensure the structural integrity of our buildings and the safety of our Environment. The NIA is committed to playing a proactive role in preventing such tragedies and It is our sincere hope That the lessons learned from this unfortunate incident will lead to enduring changes in building safety practices in Lagos State and beyond.”

Arc. Adeniyi assumed the presidency of the Nigerian Institute of Architects on November 25, 2023, becoming the 30th leader since the institute’s establishment in 1960.

Born on the 16 th day of March 1960 in London, UK, to the distinguished family of the Late Chief (Dr) Kolawole Olafimihan and Chief (Mrs) Violet Olafimihan, Arc. Adeniyi embarked on her educational journey at Queens College Yaba, Lagos, in 1971, and later earned her O-level West African School Certificate from Queen Elizabeth’s School, Ilorin, in 1975.

Graduating with honours from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, in 1980, she broke gender barriers by obtaining an MSc in Architecture in 1982, showcasing her commitment to a profession dominated by men.

Her connection with the NIA began as a student member during her university days. Over the years, she assumed various roles, culminating in her historic election as the 30th President, making her the second woman to hold this position in the institute’s 63-year history.

Motivated by creativity, Arc. Adeniyi transitioned from a lecturer to establishing her architectural firm almost three decades ago, focusing on positively impacting the built environment.

As the President, she introduced the U-N-I-T-E AGENDA, a visionary strategy emphasizing Unity, Non-negotiable integrity, Inclusivity, Total Integration with allied professions, and Empowerment. This agenda serves as the roadmap for the NIA’s future, addressing challenges like the lack of recognition and poor remuneration.

To promote diversity and inclusion, Arc. Adeniyi will work with various groups within the Institute, including Association of Architectural Educators in Nigeria( AARCHES), the Association of Consulting Architects (ACAN), the Female Architects of Nigeria (FAN) and the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS). Plans for a Young Architects Forum (YAF) and strengthened initiatives for members with physical disabilities reflect her commitment to inclusivity.

Recognising the global impact of Nigerian architects, Arc. Adeniyi plans to strengthen international collaborations and showcase Afrocentric architecture. Engaging with global architectural associations, hosting international conferences, and participating in student exchange programs are strategies to enhance the visibility of Nigerian architects globally.

As the 30th President, Arc. Adeniyi aspires to leave a legacy of unity, professionalism, and excellence. Her vision includes restoring architects and architecture to a place of pride globally, cultivating opportunities for growth and development, and leaving a lasting imprint of positive change within the NIA community and beyond.

Arc. Mobolaji Adeola Adeniyi is happily married to Dn. (Dr.) Dapo Adeniyi and their union are blessed with fruitful children and grandchildren, adding a personal touch to her illustrious professional journey. She stands as a respected figure, contributing significantly to the field of architecture nationally and internationally.