The Edo State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Hon. Vincent Uwadiae, has called on the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) to intensify efforts to eliminate quackery in the architectural profession, warning that the activities of unqualified practitioners pose significant risks to public safety and the built environment.
Uwadiae made the call while receiving the Chairman and Executive Committee members of the NIA during a courtesy visit to his office in Benin City.
Expressing concern over the growing number of individuals posing as professional architects without the requisite qualifications, the Commissioner disclosed that the Ministry frequently rejects building plans that fail to meet approved planning and architectural standards.
“At times, when you see some of the designs brought to the Ministry by these so-called architects, you begin to wonder whether they ever received formal training,” he said.
He urged the Institute to strengthen public awareness campaigns on the importance of engaging only registered architects for building design and plan preparation, stressing that qualified professionals are essential to ensuring the safety, durability and sustainability of structures.
Addressing concerns over delays in the approval of building plans, Uwadiae explained that most delays result from incomplete documentation, non-compliant designs and the absence of accurate contact details for applicants.
He assured developers and other stakeholders that applications submitted with complete documentation and designs that meet all regulatory requirements would be processed and approved within two months.
“Once all the required documents are complete and the proposed building design complies with the stipulated standards, I can assure you that approval will be granted in less than two months,” the Commissioner stated.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Architects, Arc. Wilson Agbonta, congratulated Uwadiae on his appointment and reaffirmed the Institute’s commitment to working closely with the Edo State Government to promote professionalism and sustainable infrastructure development.
Agbonta said stronger collaboration between the Ministry and the Institute would enhance regulatory compliance and ensure that only qualified architects undertake architectural projects across the state.
The meeting was attended by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Builder Joseph Nyamali; the Managing Director of the Edo State Development and Building Control Agency (ESDBCA), Hon. Igabali Darlington; the Director of Building Control, Arc. Kate Isokpunwu; the Director of Housing, Engr. Victor Osazuwa; and other senior officials of the Ministry.
