TETFund's Echono Calls for Local Housing Innovations

Arc. Sonny Echono, the Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), called on architects and built environment professionals to leverage the National Research Fund (FNRF) to create indigenous building materials and affordable housing solutions.

He made this appeal on Friday in Abuja during a courtesy visit from members of the Female Architects of Nigeria (FAN). Echono pointed out that Nigeria imports about 80% of its construction materials despite having abundant resources.

He encouraged architects to research locally sourced alternatives to reduce costs, create jobs, and retain wealth within the economy. He announced that TETFund would host a National Research Fair in November at Eagle Square, Abuja, where researchers could exhibit their works.

Applications for participation will open soon. Echono also clarified that TETFund’s sponsorship for conferences is limited to staff of beneficiary tertiary institutions.

Arc. VA Agada, chairperson of FAN, presented Echono with an FAN Award of Excellence for his support of female architects and proposed a partnership for research and sustainable housing projects.