Echono Urges Female Architects to Innovate Local Materials

Arc. Sonny Echono, the Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), called on female architects to lead research initiatives focused on developing affordable local building materials to combat Nigeria's housing shortage.

This appeal was made during a courtesy visit from the leadership of the Female Architects of Nigeria (FAN) at TETFund's headquarters in Abuja on a Friday. Echono highlighted TETFund’s commitment to supporting research and innovation that can yield affordable and climate-friendly housing solutions.

He noted that approximately 80% of construction materials in Nigeria are imported, stressing the need for local alternatives. While acknowledging progress in local production of certain materials, he pointed out the continued reliance on imports for essential components.

Echono encouraged FAN members to utilize TETFund’s research support and announced a National Research Fair scheduled for November at Abuja’s Eagle Square, inviting architects to showcase their innovations. Arc.

Ene Agada, Chairperson of FAN, recognized Echono's contributions to education and presented him with the FAN Award of Excellence.