The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arch. Ahmed Dangiwa, has urged for a comprehensive review of the Architects Registration Council of Nigeria Act 2004.
Speaking at the inauguration of the reconstituted Architects Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON) at the ministry, Dangiwa reiterated the need for what he termed a ‘surgical’ overhaul of the Act to realign its mandate with the present-day realities and future needs.
“As you get ready to start work, I also want to draw your attention to the fact that the Architects Registration Council of Nigeria Act 2004 being a statute created by the National Assembly needs immediate and urgent review and update by way of Amendment.
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The Act needs a surgical review to align its mandate with the realities of today and beyond. The Ministry under my watch would encourage this Council to urgently begin work on this amendment. We should aim to remove all areas of ambiguities.
“We should incorporate the right to exist and function with the common objective of promoting the Profession, in accordance with the provision of Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution as amended (which give Right to Freedom of Association), accordingly,” he asserted.
Expressing concern over the recurring incidents of building collapses in the nation, the minister pointed to the detrimental impact on both the country and the reputation of the Architecture in the country.
He stressed the need for ARCON to redouble its efforts in addressing this pressing issue.
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“I must also not fail to draw the attention of this Council to the incessant incidences of building collapse in our country. The recurring phenomenon has led to loss of lives, and waste of resources and brought shame to the profession and the housing sector.
This Council must therefore be committed from inception to play its part by promoting accountability, transparency through the implementation of initiatives that would enhance good governance in the built environment by bringing registered architects to uphold ethical conduct and integrity,” He concluded