KEY POINTS
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The competition celebrates architect Anthony Okoye’s 60th birthday and legacy.
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Participants will redesign Nigerian urban blocks with sustainable solutions.
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Winners will receive a total prize of ₦3 million.
To mark the 60th birthday of renowned Nigerian architect Anthony Okoye, the Nigerian Institute of Architects launched a competition.
The Ife Architecture Students’ Association and Design Genre Limited joined the partnership to unveil the national architectural design competition.
Students to design sustainable Nigerian city blocks
The initiative, themed “Reimagining the Urban Block of Nigerian Cities,” invites students nationwide to propose fresh and sustainable urban design solutions.
It encourages young designers to imagine livable, resilient, and socially inclusive spaces that reflect local realities and modern development needs.
According to the organisers, the competition is open to both undergraduate and postgraduate students of architecture in Nigerian universities. Each team may include up to five members, one of whom must be studying urban or regional planning. Participants will select an existing urban block—such as those in Yaba, Ebute Metta, or Lagos Island—and redesign it using sustainable approaches that balance density with livability.
Entries must feature two A1 boards in PDF format, illustrating site analysis, master plans, 3D visuals, and sustainability strategies, accompanied by a 1,000–1,500-word report explaining the concept and challenges addressed.
Okoye honoured for shaping architectural education
According to Punch, prizes worth ₦3 million will be awarded, with ₦1.5 million for first place, ₦1 million for second, and ₦500,000 for third. Registration opened on September 28, 2025, while submissions close on November 30. Jury deliberations will take place on December 10, and winners will be announced on December 15. Participation is free through a Google Form link.
Speaking on the collaboration, Chike Ibeanu, Honorary General Secretary of the Nigerian Institute of Architects, said the project bridges creativity and practice.
He said the contest connects what students design in studios with the realities of developing modern Nigerian cities. It helps nurture architects who understand Nigeria’s urban challenges and are committed to creating strong and inclusive communities.
IFASA President John Ojo described the initiative as both a celebration of Okoye’s milestone and his impact on architectural education.
He said Okoye has supported design contests at OAU for over a decade and inspired critical thinking on sustainable design.
Anthony Okoye, a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Architects, is recognised for his leadership in sustainable urban design and education. As a graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University, he spent his career championing architecture that balances innovation, culture, and sustainability.
