The Nigerian Institute of Architect (NIA) has conferred honorary fellowship award on former President Goodluck Jonathan; Speaker, House of Representatives, Dr. Tajudeen Abbas; and, Niger State Governor, Muhammed Bago.
The award was conferred on Wednesday on them, in Abuja during the institute’s 65th Gala Anniversary celebration.
Speaking at the ceremony, NIA president, Mrs. Mobolaji Adeniyi, who is the 30th president of the institute, said their selection reflects a collective appreciation for their exceptional contributions to the advancement of architecture, national infrastructure, and sustainable urban development in Nigeria.
Adeniyi, the second female president of the institute said, NIA will continue to recognize more individuals who are contributing immensely to architecture and livable cities in the country.
According to her, under Jonathan’s presidency, his government launched ‘transformation agenda’, which brought remarkable infrastructural projects to life and enhance the nation’s urban space.
“During his presidency from 2010 to 2015, he launched the transformation agenda, which brought remarkable infrastructural projects to life.
“Under his leadership, Nigeria witnessed the completion of the Abuja-Kaduna railway, extensive airport modernisation programs in Enugu and Abuja, and the execution of the Second Niger Bridge.
“These projects created a landscape in which architects could contribute meaningfully to national development.
“His administration promoted professional participation in the public sector, encouraged indigenous content in construction, and championed urban and regional development as tools for national integration.
“His vice, Namadi Sambo, an architect and fellow of the NIA, was pivotal to landmark infrastructure.
“Prominent architects like Arc Mike Onolememen who served as Minister of Works, and Arc Reuben Okoya, former Director of Public Buildings at the FCDA, worked on landmark initiatives during Jonathan’s tenure.
“His presidency provided architectural professionals with the opportunity to play central roles in shaping Nigeria’s infrastructure and reaffirmed his understanding of the value of the built environment.
For the Speaker, Adeniyi said he has demonstrated undeniable commitment to the growth of built sector through robust legislation.
“Speaker Abass has demonstrated a profound commitment to the Nigerian built environment by supporting legislative collaboration with the Nigerian Institute of Architects.
“Under his leadership, the House Committee on Disability Matters partnered with NIA and TAF Africa to pursue the enforcement of the Disability Act, ensuring that public buildings are accessible and inclusive.
“His support has been instrumental in promoting architectural input into legislative processes, particularly regarding accessibility, planning, and building control.
“The Speaker’s encouragement of architects’ involvement in national planning dialogues has reinforced the critical role of the profession in shaping a more inclusive and functional Nigeria.”
NIA said Gov. Bago wón the award following his government’s impressive urban renewal projects in the state, making Niger to become small London.
‘Governor Bago has redefined urban governance in Niger State since taking office in 2023.
“His administration has actively pursued urban renewal, expanded infrastructure, and embraced inclusive planning approaches.
“With architects leading his transformation agenda, the built environment in the state has undergone significant improvement.
“The collaboration between his administration and the NIA, through the Niger State Chapter led by Arc Usman Aliyu Yarima, has resulted in the development of public spaces, government buildings, and road networks that showcase architectural input.
“The Governor promptly approved land for the NIA State Secretariat and consistently consulted with professionals on urban and rural development projects.
“The institute recognised his commitment in December 2023 with a special award for his support for architecture. He has also employed architects in all relevant departments and agencies of Government.
Adeniyi added that the honourees embody the principles of the NIA’s UNITE Agenda, which seeks to promote unity, non-negotiable integrity, inclusivity, total integration, and empowerment.
According to her, their actions have fostered collaboration between architects and government, upheld ethical values in public leadership, and promoted inclusive development strategies, as each has created space for architects to lead, contribute, and innovate in their respective spheres.
“Dr. Jonathan’s national infrastructure vision, Speaker Abass’s legislative backing of inclusive architecture, and Governor Bago’s integration of architectural principles in state governance form a powerful trio of influence.
“Their transformative impact has enriched architectural practice and underscored its relevance in shaping communities and improving lives.
“The Honorary Fellowship bestowed upon them by the NIA affirms the Institute’s appreciation for leadership that places architecture at the core of development.
“It celebrates their lasting contributions to the profession and fosters further collaboration between architects and policymakers,” the NIA president said.
