By Joy Salami and Abubakar Abraham
The Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), Kogi State Chapter, has called for stronger collaboration with media organizations to promote architecture, enhance public enlightenment, and inspire future professionals in the built environment sector.
The appeal was made when the State Chairman of the Institute, Arc. John Attah, led a delegation of members on a courtesy visit to the management of The Graphic Newspaper in Lokoja.
Arc. Attah described architecture as a vital profession with a frontline role in planning, designing, and supervising structures and spaces, stressing that the media remains an indispensable partner in showcasing architectural works, raising awareness on sustainable building practices, and enlightening the younger generation about career opportunities.
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He explained that architecture goes beyond drawing plans or supervising projects, noting that architects are trained to conceive, design, and manage functional, safe, and sustainable spaces. According to him, reliance on quacks or unqualified persons often results in substandard structures, building collapse, waste of resources, and even loss of lives.
We play a fundamental role as custodians of the built environment. But without publicity, the public may never understand the relevance of our work. That is why we are here, to seek collaboration with the media in projecting our programs, inspiring young professionals, and creating broader awareness of architecture’s impact on society, Attah stated.
He further highlighted the various ways media organizations can support the profession, including documentation and archiving of projects, critical reviews, public education, and showcasing innovative designs. Such publicity, he noted, would not only give visibility to architects but also deepen public appreciation of sustainable construction practices.
Responding, the Managing Director of The Graphic Newspaper, Mr. Yusuf Itopa commended the Institute for recognizing the relevance of the media in their practice and assured them of the paper’s readiness to partner in projecting their activities.
Even the best of programs will go unnoticed without the media. If you don’t tell your story, nobody will know what you are doing. Anytime you call us, we will be there, Itopa assured.
The MD urged the architects to continue engaging the press and “blow their own trumpet,” stressing that publicity is essential in today’s competitive professional environment. He also encouraged the Institute to leverage opportunities for deeper collaboration, including interviews and feature stories that highlight their contributions to the built environment.
Earlier, the Executive Editor, Mr. James Oyewole, welcomed the delegation and disclosed that the visit would be given prominent coverage. He also emphasised the need for synergy between professional bodies and the media to promote sustainable development in Kogi State.
The visit brought together both past and current leaders of the Institute, including the pioneer chairman and other senior members, signaling what Arc. Attah described it as “a collective effort to strengthen relationships with stakeholders who play key roles in shaping public perception.”
The NIA Kogi State Chapter expressed appreciation to the management of The Graphic Newspaper for the warm reception and pledged to sustain engagements that would enhance the visibility of architecture in the state.
