Dear Esteemed Members, Colleagues, and Fellow Nigerians,
Today, on World Environment Day, we gather to address the pressing challenges facing our environment. As architects, we have a critical role to play in shaping the built environment and promoting sustainability.
This year’s Theme, “Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience,” resonates deeply with our current environmental realities. Nigeria is facing severe land degradation, desertification, and drought, which have devastating impacts on our ecosystems, biodiversity, and human well-being.
In Nigeria, we face numerous environmental challenges, including pollution, deforestation, and climate change. Our cities are plagued by inadequate waste management, flooding, and poor air quality. These issues not only harm our health but also hinder economic growth and development.
Today, I want to highlight two specific examples that illustrate the urgency of our environmental crisis. First, the story of Amina, a 300-level student at the University of Lagos, whose deplorable living conditions have been trending on social media. Her situation is a stark reminder of the human cost of environmental neglect and reflects the plight of many Nigerians. We must act to ensure that everyone has access to safe and healthy living environments.
Second, the Lake Chad crisis, which affects millions of people in the region. The shrinking of Lake Chad has led to water scarcity, food insecurity, and displacement. This ecological disaster demands our attention and collective action.
As architects, we must take the lead in designing sustainable buildings, cities, and communities. We must incorporate green technologies, renewable energy sources, and eco-friendly materials into our designs. We must prioritize energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste reduction.
We must also work with policymakers, developers, and stakeholders to ensure that environmental considerations are integrated into urban planning and development. We must promote inclusive and sustainable urban design, creating spaces that are livable, accessible, and equitable for all. We have reached out to the Minister of Environment and assured him of our capacity as architects to work with his ministry in ensuring lasting solutions to some of our challenges.
On this World Environment Day, I urge you all to join me in committing to environmental stewardship. Let us work together to restore our lands, combat desertification, and build resilience to drought. Let us act to protect our environment, restore our ecosystems, and ensure a sustainable future for all.
Thank you.
Arc Mobolaji Adeniyi
President, Nigerian Institute of Architects
