Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has called for collaboration between the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and higher education institutions in Ogun State offering architecture programs.
The governor also encouraged the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) to create a competition that would inspire architecture students across Nigeria to refine their skills and create innovative designs for the country’s development.
Governor Abiodun made these remarks on Tuesday while hosting the President of the Royal Institute of British Architects, Mr. Muyiwa Oki, in his office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
Mr. Muyiwa Oki, a Nigerian-born British architect, became the 80th President of the Royal Institute of British Architects in September 2023, making him the youngest and first black president of the institute at the age of 32.
Governor Abiodun, acknowledging Mr. Oki’s achievement, emphasized the need for collaboration to foster research and development in the field of architecture.
He stated, “We believe that through your office, you can support your home state, Ogun. We have architectural departments in some of our higher education institutions, and I believe that a collaboration with you in terms of research into sustainable and affordable housing would be greatly beneficial.”
Governor Abiodun highlighted his administration’s efforts in constructing about 3,500 affordable houses in Kobape, a suburb of Abeokuta, transforming it into a thriving town. Similar housing projects have been completed in Sagamu, Ota, Ilaro, and Ijebu-Ode.
“We aim to promote not just affordable homeownership but also the entire value-chain, from architecture that designs sustainable and affordable housing to the jobs created for artisans like bricklayers, carpenters, and painters,” he added.
The governor noted that his administration is focusing on renewal through the Urban Renewal and Rejuvenation Process across the state, starting with the older Abeokuta housing scheme, with new and more sustainable housing projects underway in collaboration with the United Kingdom Development Office.
While commending Mr. Muyiwa Oki for bringing pride to Ogun State and Nigeria, Governor Abiodun said: “Your elevation is a source of pride for us, and we look forward to the synergy between you, RIBA, and your home state.”
Mr. Muyiwa Oki expressed his gratitude to Governor Abiodun for the warm welcome, mentioning that he intends to focus on three key areas during his tenure: emphasizing the role of architecture in people’s lives, addressing climate change challenges, and promoting diversity and inclusion as the first black president of the institute.
