The Director of Public Building at the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Bature Tagwai, has urged young Nigerian architects to adopt a diligent and thorough approach to their work, emphasizing the importance of continuous self-improvement in the demanding field of architecture.
In an interview with newsmen in Abuja, Tagwai stressed that architecture requires hard work, attention to detail, and a high level of personal commitment. He advised young professionals to focus on self-driven education and global awareness, noting that the field demands a proactive approach to staying up-to-date with the latest developments.
Tagwai, who was recently conferred with the prestigious status of Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (FNIA), warned that architecture does not tolerate laziness, emphasizing the need for promptness, decisiveness, and diligence in all aspects of the profession. He also highlighted the importance of continuous self-education, particularly in areas such as building materials and innovative technologies.
With over two decades of experience in public service, Tagwai reflected on his career, which began at the FCDA in 1992. He praised the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, for his leadership and appreciation of hard work, which has resulted in significant transformations in the Abuja landscape. Tagwai commended the minister’s efforts to create an enabling environment for the practice of architecture, noting that the city’s transformation has been rapid and visible.
As the year draws to a close, Tagwai emphasized the need for unity, collaboration, and partnership in the built environment sector, stating that collective efforts are necessary to drive progress. He expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to work with the FCT Minister and looked forward to continued collaboration in shaping the future of Abuja’s architecture.
The FCDA Director’s comments come at a time when the Nigerian architecture sector is experiencing significant growth, driven by government initiatives and investments in infrastructure development. As the sector continues to evolve, the importance of skilled and dedicated professionals cannot be overstated. Tagwai’s emphasis on diligence, self-improvement, and collaboration serves as a reminder of the high standards required to succeed in the field and contribute to the country’s urban development goals.