Stakeholders in the business of Architecture, Oil and Gas recently converged in the city of Port Harcourt, Rivers State to discuss on the theme: Oil and Gas Industry Impact On Architecture and Environment in Nigeria and how best to achieve the green Architecture which lasted for five days.
In his opening remarks during the program, the National President of Nigerian Institute of Architecture (NIA)_ Arc. Haruna Ibrahim commended the leadership strides of the Rivers State chapter chairman of the institute, Arc. Dike Emmanuel which he said was in tandem with his vision.
He enjoined all chapter chairmen to rally round Emmanuel to emulate from him, urging Arc Dike to see if he could make the 2013 Architecture week, an annual event. He also commended the Lagos State chapter chairman, Ladipo Lewis for the good work that he is doing.
Arc. Dike in the same vein reiterated that the week will provide an opportunity for interaction and exchange of ideas with guests and partners, adding that a communiqué will be released on issues so discussed and proffer solutions on how best to tackle the rusted roof in the Niger Delta region.
However, Arc. Ola Banwo, an American based Architect, really distinguished himself is a core professional in the business of Architecture with exceptional lectures, which he delivered at the 2013 Architecture Week.
The lectures which include: “Introduction to Accessible Design, with special reference to Americans with Disabilities Act,” and Guide to leadership in Energy and Environment Design,” was greeted by the audience as an expertise experience, well thought out by Arc. Banwo.
In an interview with reporters at the end of the events, Arc. Banwo commended the role of Arc. Majokodumu Banjo in his life after school, which he said helped to place him where he is today. He blamed parents and pastors for not inculcating good morals on the younger ones.
The USA based Architect also blamed the incessant collapse of buildings in the country on the use of buildings for unintended purpose” and the use of substandard materials against the original plans or specification. He however, warned Architects and builders against receiving any form of gratification from contractors or whoever, as such will definitely compromise their standards.
Banwo who wondered why some buildings are still standing in Nigeria, disclosed that many houses are converted to other purposes that were not originally in the building plan without taking cognizance of the plan or getting the advice of the architect for any further amendment to the building in question.
He further called on Nigerian government to enforce the law in finding out what building is used unintended or otherwise, adding that the green architect, that was discussed at the event was such that will provide a platform for things to be done the other way round, that will bring about stability and sustainability simultaneously in the Nigerian society, Banwo added.
In her view as the guest lecturer, Ann Kio-Briggs, a human rights activist from the Niger Delta region, described oil and gas as the main source of revenue for economic development, stressing that Nigeria has lagged behind development, since the discovery of oil.
She pointed out Dubai that is the true example of a country where environment and architecture were exhibited in the development of that country within 50 years of its existence as a country while Nigeria over 50 years, celebrating century has nothing to show for it. She further described the situation as indication of lost hopes, but believed that something could be done in the face of hopelessness. Annkio-Briggs called for immediate stop to gas flaring and the need for oil companies to respect the laws of the country and the state where they operate and the need for the people to ensure that the oil companies obey the laws of the people.
Other stakeholders that spoke on the outcome of the event include: Ladipo Lewis, NIA Lagos State chapter who commend the Lagos State governor, Raji Fashola for the developmental strides in the state and the opportunity for them to work in tandem with his vision, urging Nigerians to ensure that their visions/dreams are replicated and not to die off.
Others who also spoke on collapsed buildings among other issues are: Arc. Asomba Egbuonu, secretary NIA, Rivers State chapter, Arc. A. Ebiwene Bozimo of Bayelsa State, Arc. Peter Ijente, former Vice chairman, NIA, Rivers State chapter, Arc. Lawson T and Arc. I. S. Saulawa. ###
Blaise Elumezie
