By Kwin Israel, The Sight News
The Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), Arc. Sonny Echono, has urged architects, particularly female professionals, to spearhead research and innovation that will tackle Nigeria’s housing deficit and reduce the nation’s dependence on imported building materials.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the leadership of Female Architects of Nigeria (FAN) to TETFund headquarters in Abuja, Arc. Echono reaffirmed the Fund’s commitment to supporting research that delivers affordable, climate-responsive and aesthetically sound housing solutions.
He disclosed that TETFund’s National Research Fund has been expanded beyond tertiary institutions to support innovative research from all segments of society.
The TETFund boss expressed concern that nearly 80 per cent of building materials used in Nigeria are imported, describing the trend as unsustainable. While acknowledging progress in the local production of items such as tiles, granite and electrical cables, he stressed the need for research into locally sourced alternatives for other critical building components to boost local industry, create jobs and retain national wealth.
He also announced that TETFund will host a National Research Fair in November, inviting architects and other innovators to showcase research-driven solutions capable of addressing Nigeria’s development challenges.
Earlier, Chairperson of Female Architects of Nigeria, Arc. Ene Agada, commended the TETFund boss for his contributions to education and research, presenting him with the FAN Award of Excellence in recognition of his support for the profession and women in architecture.
She reaffirmed the association’s commitment to advancing housing delivery, environmental sustainability and women’s empowerment, while expressing FAN’s readiness to partner with TETFund on initiatives that promote research, innovation and national development.
