Sanwo-Olu seeks expert partnership to drive sustainable infrastructure in Lagos
...Calls for deeper collaboration with architects to shape resilient, inclusive city
By Sodiq Adelakun
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has emphasised the need for robust collaboration between the state government and professionals in the built environment, particularly architects, as a foundation for sustainable physical development and smart urban transformation.
The governor made this known through his deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, on Saturday during the 6th edition of the Distinguished Lecture Series organised by the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), held at the Ecobank Pan African Centre (EPAC), Victoria Island, Lagos.
Sanwo-Olu stated that architecture plays a vital role in shaping how people live, work, and thrive, stressing that as Lagos continues to expand as a megacity and economic nerve centre, strategic partnerships with professionals are key to delivering infrastructure that is functional, beautiful, safe, and inclusive.
He added that civilisation cannot be sustained without a decent environment guided by expert hands, warning that failure to involve qualified professionals in critical planning processes would only deepen systemic urban failures.
The governor described architecture as a cornerstone of sustainable national development, directly influencing not just environmental stewardship, but also economic and social prosperity.
He urged architects to always raise their voices when necessary to ensure the right standards and ethics are upheld in public and private construction projects.
Commending the NIA for its consistency in hosting the lecture series and for fostering innovation through shared knowledge and professional excellence, Sanwo-Olu encouraged participants to embrace idea-sharing that challenges outdated models and prioritises sustainability.
He reaffirmed his administration’s readiness to align with professional bodies in realising the Lagos of the future.
Delivering the keynote lecture titled “Harmony in Diversity,” retired Permanent Secretary and first female President of the NIA, Arc. Mrs. Olubukunola Ejiwunmi, charged architects to build not only with technical skill but with emotional and national responsibility.
She stated that harmony is not an abstract concept but a deliberate pursuit that demands architects listen deeply, design purposefully, and lead courageously.
According to her, architects must become custodians of national values by ensuring their work reflects sustainability, equity, and cultural dignity. She maintained that architecture must be wielded not just as a tool for shelter, but as an instrument of unity, compassion, and justice in a country as diverse and challenged as Nigeria.
Earlier in her welcome address, NIA President, Arc. Mobolaji Adeniyi (FNIA), described the Distinguished Lecture Series as a platform for celebrating excellence and continuity in architectural leadership.
She stated that the theme of this year’s lecture, “Harmony in Diversity,” is both timely and compelling, given Nigeria’s current need for inclusive development and shared national identity.
Adeniyi challenged architects across the country to use their diversity as strength in designing a better and more united future.