By Angela Atabo
The Federal Government has called on female architects across the country to take on greater leadership roles in advancing green construction, safer and sustainable national development.
The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, and the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, gave the charge at the Female Architects of Nigeria (FAN) 2025 Annual General Meeting.
The AGM with the theme “Creating Spaces that Heal, Inspire and Sustain” was organised by FAN to chart a future where architecture becomes a conduit for healing, empowerment and responsible stewardship for the environment.
Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim was represented by Mrs Ola Erinfolami, Director, SA Administration, Office of the Minister of Women Affairs.
The minister described the role of female architects as “powerful, strategic and urgently needed” in shaping the nation’s future.
“Nigeria’s rapid urbanisation, climate vulnerabilities, energy deficits and population growth demand architectural design and leadership that embraces circular design, resource efficiency, clean energy adaptation and resilient planning.
“It is heart-warming to see that our women architects are already showing the way, redefining what it means to build for both people and planet.
“Let me quickly add at this point that your role goes even deeper.
“You are the champions of safe public spaces for women and girls. You determine whether our schools are secure, whether hospitals are dignified, whether markets are accessible and whether communities can thrive free from environmental risks.
“You shape the ecosystems that protect children, empower families, support creativity and strengthen national identity.
“The ministry stands ready to collaborate with FAN on child-friendly infrastructure, women’s safe urban planning, energy-efficient community hubs and the architectural components of our special programme,” she said.
The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, represented by the Director of Public Buildings and Housing Development, Pemi Temitope, reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote sustainable construction practices, green building technologies and capacity development for women.
“Our national housing agenda emphasises affordability, climate resilience and liveable urban development, where architects, especially female architects, play an indispensable role.
“Let me assure you that the ministry will continue to strengthen collaboration with professional bodies, including FAN, to promote policies and programmes that enhance the quality of our new environment,” he said.
Also speaking, the President, Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), Mobolaji Adeniyi, said the theme of the event resonated deeply with architects’ collective passion to shape environments that uplift and empower Nigerian communities.
Adeniyi said, “As one of your own, I am proud to acknowledge the remarkable contributions you have made in the building of environment in Nigeria.
“Your innovative designs, dedication and expertise have not only elevated our profession, but also transformed lives. Let us continue to push boundaries. Let us continue to challenge norms.
“Let us continue to create spaces that reflect our values and aspirations,” she urged.
Earlier, the FAN Chairperson, Ene Agada, said the event aimed to spotlight the transformative role of Nigerian architects in shaping sustainable cities, resilient communities and culturally resonant spaces.
According to Agada, women architects in Nigeria continue to lead by designing contextually responsive, environmentally responsible and culturally meaningful projects.
Agada said to advance this vision, FAN must reinforce policies and platforms that support women-led design excellence, promote sustainable construction, material innovation and circular economic approaches.
She also stressed the need to build strong alliances across public, private and academic sectors to raise standards, governance and equity.
“We must also document and showcase Nigerian case studies that prove that sustainability, culture and social equity cannot only coexist but thrive.”
Agada reaffirmed FAN’s dedication to expanding leadership pipeline through mentorship, scholarships and capacity building, advocating for climate-resilient planning, affordable housing strengthening collaborations among others.
“Let us design with intention, creating spaces that reduce environmental import while enhancing well-being. Let us mentor the next generation to lead with confidence and compassion.
“Let us celebrate Nigerian architectural excellence locally and globally while remaining rooted in our values and cultural identity.” (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Maureen Atuonwu
