As Nigeria joins the global community in celebrating World Architecture Day, the Edo State chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) has issued a strong call for residents to prioritize hiring qualified architects for their construction projects. This initiative aims to combat the rising trend of quackery in the building sector, which has led to numerous construction failures and safety hazards.

During a press conference held in Benin, the Chairman of the Edo NIA, Wilson Agbonta, emphasized the significance of this year's theme, "Housing is a right, Build it right." He pointed out that the theme is particularly relevant given the current challenges faced in the housing sector, where inadequate planning has resulted in building collapses and persistent flooding.

Agbonta highlighted the urgent need for residents to understand that housing should be regarded as a fundamental human right rather than a privilege. He expressed concern over the consequences of poor building practices, stating, "We see buildings collapse, we see flooding due to poor planning, we see quackery taking over our sites, we see beautiful lands being abused by unprofessional hands."

To address these critical issues, the Edo NIA has launched a statewide campaign aimed at raising awareness among citizens about the importance of engaging qualified architects. The campaign features the question, "Who is your Architect?" which Agbonta hopes will encourage residents to consider the qualifications of those they hire for construction projects.

In addition to advocating for professional practices, Agbonta revealed that the executive members of the NIA are committed to revitalizing the chapter's operations. This includes enhancing transparency, fostering engagement, and ensuring that the activities of the chapter align with the constitution and bye-laws of the NIA. The goal is to restore confidence among members and improve the overall standards of architecture in Edo State.

The NIA's initiative comes at a crucial time when the consequences of unregulated building practices are becoming increasingly evident. By promoting the hiring of qualified architects, the organization aims to mitigate risks associated with poor construction and to ensure that housing developments meet safety and quality standards. As the campaign unfolds, the NIA hopes to see a shift in public perception towards the importance of professional architectural services in the state.