From Godwin Agia, Jalingo
The Nigeria Institute of Architects (NIA) has attributed frequent building collapses in Taraba State and Nigeria to the activities of unqualified practitioners.
Arc. Hadizah Bello Yero, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Work and Infrastructures, stated this during the 2025 Annual General Meeting and the chapter’s 10th-anniversary celebration held at the Blue Nile Suites, Jalingo, on Sunday.
Speaking on the theme "Architects as Leaders of the Built Environment", Arc. Yero noted that many buildings that collapsed in Nigeria failed because NIA members were not involved in the design and supervision stages.
"Our profession has been hijacked by quacks," she lamented. "With the advent of new technology, including Artificial Intelligence, anyone who can handle a computer can manipulate and get what they want."
Arc. Yero emphasized that architects must follow rules and regulations before submitting designs to clients. However, she noted that clients often prefer to work with quacks to avoid these guidelines.
"Something needs to be done," she urged. "The government needs to regulate building control laws before any structure can be erected."
The outgoing Chairman of the Taraba Chapter, Arc. Ibrahim Mohammad, while reflecting on the chapter’s journey over the past decade enumerated the achievements of the chapter since its inauguration on January 15, 2015, in Abuja.
“This anniversary celebration today is a proof of our collective efforts, perseverance, and commitment to advancing our profession. Our past leaders have done their best it is our hope that the chapter will continue its commitment to promoting excellence in architecture, design, and construction within Taraba State.
"Let us celebrate our achievements, learn from our experiences, and work towards a brighter future for our profession and our state," Mohammad said.
On his part, guest speaker, Arc. Bulus Bello-Umar harped on the need for architects to create innovative spaces that are habitable while leveraging technology and professionalism to ease their work delivery and ensure clients' satisfaction without compromising the environment.
Our correspondent reports that the chapter elected Arc. Adashu Agbu as Chairman, Arc. Ignatius Agbese as Vice Chairman and Bulus Bello-Umar as Secretary among others.
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