ANAMBRA HOUSING COMMISSIONER RECEIVES HONOR, CALLS FOR UNITY AMONG NIASSC MEMBERS
By Uzoma Ekweaga :
Anambra State Housing Commissioner, Mr Pauly Onyeka has urged members of the Anambra State Chapter of Nigeria Institute of Architects (NIASSC) to prioritize unity and environmental transformation for better development of the state.
The commissioner who stated this while receiving an honor at the Nigeria Institute of Architects’ annual conference held at Oba Daniel Nwandu Architectural Research Center, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, emphasized the importance of professionalism and good conduct, particularly when interacting with others in the building profession, to prevent industry problems.
He advised architects to carefully get their work done. ”From the outset, ensure your designs are thoroughly refined and well-packaged before implementation. This means carefully considering every aspect of the project, getting everything just right, before taking it to the site for construction.”
While urging them to prioritize environmental architecture, alongside building design, he emphasized the importance of supporting Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s transformation agenda, focusing on urban regeneration for a livable and prosperous smart mega city.
Mr Onyeka noted that architects often overlook environmental architecture, focusing primarily on building infrastructure. He encouraged them to create designs that enhance the state’s aesthetic value and present these ideas to the government for adoption. “By doing so, architects can contribute significantly to the state’s development,” he stressed.
He emphasized the importance of discipline within the institution, urging leaders to promote unity and prevent disunity among members. He warned that arrogance can hinder progress, making it difficult to receive advice, which is crucial for growth.
Onyeka expressed gratitude to the institution for honoring him, citing it as evidence of the ministry’s positive impact on the state and a testament to Professor Chukwuma Soludo’s outstanding achievements.
He however declared his love for the architectural profession and pledged to always support the association’s activities whenever the need arises .
Earlier in his welcome address, the State Chairman of NIASSC , Arc. Ikenna Onuorah welcomed all the people to the event , saying that this year’s theme : Towards A Livable and Sustainable Urban City : Role of Professionalism in Planning and Construction ” was in line with Professor Chukwuma Soludo’s desire to address environmental problems facing the cities with more emphasis on challenges of professionalism.
He said that according to the United Nations Environmental Program, (UNEP) reports, a city must provide high quality of life for its residents and such cities should possess effective transportation system, green space and urban parks, sustainable housing and infrastructure, access to essential services like hospitals,among others.
Other dignitaries that graced the event included the Acting Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University ,Prof Carol Umobi, represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academics, Prof Agbonome P, State Chairman, Nigeria Institute of Structural Engineering, Prof Akolisa Ezeagu, Chairman, Institute of Surveyors, Anambra Chapter, Surv. Gabriel Okeke among others.
* Ekweaga is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *