The Nigeria Institute of Architects (NIA), Anambra State Chapter, has lauded Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s urban regeneration initiatives aimed at transforming the state’s cities. The commendation came during the institute’s 2024 Annual Conference, themed “Towards a Liveable and Sustainable Urban City: Role of Professionals in Planning and Construction,” held at the Oba D.A. Nwandu Architectural Research Centre, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.
During the event, NIA praised Gov. Soludo for key projects such as the ongoing tree-planting initiative across Awka, Onitsha, and Nnewi, which aims to make the state greener and cleaner. They also highlighted major infrastructure projects, including the Ekwulobia flyover construction, the development of a fun city in Awka, and the rehabilitation of Okpoko slum in Ogbaru Council Area. Additional efforts like mass employment programs and the “1 Youth, 2 Skills” initiative were noted as significant achievements under Soludo’s administration.
The Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, represented by Deputy Vice Chancellor Rev. Fr. Prof. Peter Chukwuemeka Agbonome, encouraged architects to uphold professionalism and collaboration with the engineering sector to combat quackery and inefficiency in the construction industry. He emphasized that cooperation is vital to preventing building collapses.
Representing Gov. Soludo, the State Commissioner for Housing and Infrastructure, Hon. Pauly Onyeka, urged architects to think beyond traditional designs and embrace entrepreneurial strategies that align with Soludo’s vision of making Anambra a livable, green, and prosperous state.
The Chairman of the NIA Anambra Chapter, Arc. Dr. Ikenna Michael Onuorah, emphasized the importance of equipping young architects with the right knowledge and called on the governor to establish an “Artisan Guild” to train and retrain building laborers, such as masons and carpenters, who play a vital role in construction.
In his keynote address, Arc. Asomba Andrew Egbuonu, the guest speaker, stressed the need for collaboration between the state government, professional bodies, and stakeholders to achieve the goal of creating liveable and sustainable cities in Awka, Onitsha, and Nnewi. He highlighted that sustainable cities prioritize the well-being of residents by providing access to clean air, water, affordable housing, healthcare, and recreational spaces.
Barr. Chike Maduekwe, Executive Chairman of the Anambra State Physical Planning Board, urged architects to strengthen collaboration with other professionals to achieve their goals. He also cautioned against staying overnight in buildings under construction, a directive aimed at reducing building collapses.
The conference recognized the achievements of three architecture students from Nnamdi Azikiwe University—Ogbuagu Ifeanyi Emmanuel, Oli Emmanuel Ikechukwu, and Mgburuchi Emmanuel Chinwendu—who won the NIA Students Design Competition for their “Model Market for Anambra State” project. Several individuals, including Hon. Pauly Onyeka, Ossy Onuko, and guest speaker Arc. Asomba Egbuonu, were also honored for their contributions to architecture in Anambra State.
