4 Jun 2023

Architect Michael Olutusen Onafowokan

NIA FOUNDERS DAY/MEMORIAL LECTURE HONOURS LIFE & LEGACY OF LATE ARC. MICHAEL OLUTUSEN ONAFOWOKAN AT IKORODU TOWN HALL ®™√ INN Nigeria © 37evebej8788341786985934610 Senator Tokunbo Abiru (representing Lagos East Senatorial District), Prof. Kunle Ade Wahab (President, Ikorodu Chamber Of Commerce & Industry), Arc. (Sir) Dipo Ajayi (Architect registration council of Nigeria) and Arc. Enyi Ben-Eboh (President, The Nigerian Institute Of Architects) were among the dignitaries at the NIA founders day/memorial lecture of Late Arc. Michael Olutusen Onafowokan. The lecture and compendium launch which took place at Ikorodu ultra-modern town hall on the 1st of April 2022 was organised to solidify the legacy of Late Arc. Michael Olutusen Onafowokan was appraised as the first Nigerian Architect and planner. With stakeholders, members of Allied Professions in the Built Environment and Association of Professional Bodies of Nigeria, Building Collapse Guild, NBA, NSE, Surveyors Institute, Town Planning Institute, Institute of Chartered Accountants, Leaders of Religious Organisations, Reverends, Imams, Pastors, the council of Obas and students from the architectural department of Caleb university in attendance, the program was themed: 'Architecture Legacy, The Challenge Of Sustainability. In his welcome address, Arc. Victor Uchenna Achime (Chairman, Ikorodu branch, Lagos State chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Architects) acknowledged the Late Arc. Michael Onafowokan is his father, boss and launcher. "He launched me into the world of Architecture after my youth service in 1993. Little did I know that I was making history by coming in contact and serving under Nigerian number one Architect." "I am delighted to be the one championing this First Memorial Lecture in his honour. Baba Onofowokan as he was fondly called was born on the 1st of December but we moved the posthumous celebration of his Birthday to the 1st of April to correspond with the day he and his colleagues founded the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) in 1960, 62 years ago. A sixty-year-old institution by all standards is a noble and respectable one." "Ikorodu Branch of NIA has packaged a Compendium of Historic and Iconic buildings in Ikorodu aimed at preserving the disappearing heritage of Ikorodu town for posterity. Urbanisation and retro-fitting due to changes in uses of building especially by Investors have continued to eliminate some of the Monuments and Historical building we met here in Ikorodu some twenty years ago." "We, therefore, concluded to file some of such remaining buildings in pictures and writing in this first edition for keeps at home and in Libraries. Schools of Architecture should also have them as good readings for History of Architecture." "The Compendium will be launched today" Arc. Victor Uchenna added Whilst celebrating the icon of architecture, Arc. Michael Onafowokan (marking about three decanters de he departed the world as a productive sojourn), the program equally honoured the originality of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) Lagos State and Ikorodu Chapter for always living up to its professional obligations. According to Keynote speaker, Professor Michael Adebamowo (Former Dean of Faculty of Environmental Studies, University of Lagos), Architect Michael Olutusen Onafowokan is not just number one on this table as the first Nigerian Architect, but he was the first on the list of Town Planners been the doyen of both professions. He continued, "quoting the former National President of Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (Dr S.A. Olateru Olagbegi) on August 24 1991, Chief Michael Olutusen Onofowokan was; The 1st African Architect and automatically the 1st Nigerian Architect, the 1st President of Nigerian Institute of Architect; the 1st Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Architects, A Fellow of the Royal Institute of British Architects; A member of the Commonwealth Board of Architectural Education from 1966-1971, A Pioneer Town Planner in Nigeria and Africa." "He is accordingly, the 1st President of Nigerian Institute of Town Planners, as well as 1st Fellow of the Institute, the 1st government registered Town Planner in Nigeria and a member of the Royal Town Planning Institute, London, the President of Ibadan Tennis Club (1957-58 and 1960-1961), the 1st President of the Methodist Boys High School, Lagos and Representative of Nigeria at the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (1957-1960)" Prof Michael Adebamowo highlighted in a visually displayed presentation via a projector Arc. David Majekodunmi (INT'LASSOC) Chairman, NIA Lagos State Chapter, bolting on Architecture Legacy (The Challenge of Sustainability) asserted that the contributions made towards nation-building by Late Pa Onafowokan cannot be overstated and more importantly, should never be forgotten. He proceeded, "Pa Onafowokan laboured tirelessly and with great tact, intelligence, boldness, and confidence. Working together with other shining stars of Architecture such as the late sages Arc. Oluwole Olumuyiwa, Arc. Frank Nwobuora Mbanefo, Arc. John Seyton MacGregor, Arc. Dan Awani, they founded the Nigerian Institute of Architects and established it as one indivisible and independent association." "Pa Michael Onafowokan was not just an Architect but was also a Town Planner and was deeply rooted in Land Surveying, Civil Engineering, and Quantity Surveying, which prepared him for the multiple roles he played in the practice of Architecture in Nigeria. As one of the Chief Architects and Builders, he was instrumental in laying the foundation for the nation destined to be the leader of Africa and a model for the black race" "Sustainable Architecture is the use of design strategies to reduce the negative impact on the built environment. However, sustainability is not only related to environmental issues. It is also related to social equity and economic development" "However, the main challenge of sustainability is still strongly correlated with the preservation of a communal environment for future generations. When it comes to sustainability at least in the literal sense, we do not need data to demonstrate the performance of older buildings: their continued existence already proves that they hat, been sustained over time" Arc. David Majekodunmi surmised In his remarks, Senator Tokunbo Abiru urged the current theoretical/historical section of architectural education to be localised i.e. the study othe f history of Nigerian Architecture, (beyond the existing traditional architecture) should be infused into the system to prepare the trainees for the reality of the ground. "Architectural works can be preserved by publication or by other means, setting-up of foundations and the building-up of galleries in existing museums or new ones" "The potentials of each architect should be put into optimal use when discovered, the need for continuity of architectural practice should be a bonding for every architectural office as a strategy should be evolved to suit the practices." Tokunbo Abiru asserted Arc. Enyi Ben-Eboh, President & Chairman-in-Council extolled the virtues of the Late Arc. Michael Olutusen Onafowokan and his leadership approach. "Exactly sixty-two years ago several patriotic Nigerian graduates of architecture, who had their training in the United Kingdom and the United States of America, came together to birth the Institute on the 1st of April 1960. The event had the then Prime Minister of the soon to be independent Nigeria, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa not only attending but performing the inauguration." "Arc. Onafowokan or Pa Onafowokan as he was fondly called, became the 1st President of the Institute and from that humble beginning, the Institute has grown in leaps and bounds to have vibrant chapters in all 36 states of the Federation and the FCT in addition to two branches of the Lagos state chapter." "Across the 36 states of Nigeria and the FCT, activities are going on simultaneously to sensitise the public about the unique role architecture plays in shaping our cities, showcasing our identity as a people and defining our civilization." "As custodians of the art of building and urban design, we must use the opportunity of moments like this to appraise our role in defining how accessible the product of our trade is to the average Nigerian within the context of sustainability, energy efficiency and affordability." "I congratulate the Lagos State Chapter and the Ikorodu branch in particular for this bold initiative of initiating the Arc. Michael Onafowokan memorial lecture. It goes to buttress the importance of spreading our tentacles to the grassroots without which today's event may not have come to fruition." Arc. Eyin Ben-Eboh added Prof Adedeji Daramola (Professor of Architecture and Consultant to UN-HABITAT, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) Caleb University, Imota) in his remarks scored Pa Michael Onafowokan a shining light, A tenacious leader, who did everything possible to ensure the construction of the road which today is the most celebrated BRT route in Lagos Megacity. He continued, "Travelling the Ikorodu road every morning on my way to Caleb University fetch me into remembrance of the crucial efforts of Arc. Onafowokan and his team mapping and navigating the 13 odd miles of snake-infested jungle between Yaba and Ikorodu" "Pa Onafowokan was an icon that illuminated the architectural terrain in Nigeria after a dogged training in the United Kingdom. A complete environmental designer that combined architectural knowledge with urban planning skills to engineering precision that brought the cradle of city planning ie modern Nigeria. His interpersonal relationship with the British colleagues, commissioner or the colony at the Works department brought tremendous success to the first infrastructural revolution in Lagos city in the 1960s." "Arc Papa Michael Onafowokan left an unforgettable mark in the field of architecture, planning and engineering in Nigeria and indeed, Lagos state specifically. The continuous existence of Papa Onafowokan's architectural outfit (Onafowokan Cityscape Group OCG) more than three decades after his demise, gives credence to the depth and width of knowledge developed and impartation to his mentees whilst he was on earth." "Caleb University currently runs a very formidable school of architecture at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. With the recent 2022, accreditation approval from the Architects Registration Council of Nigeria, we are poised to continue with the legacy of our progenitor and role model, Papa Michael Olutusen Onafowokan (OON), the first president of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) and Architects Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON)" Prof Adedeji Daramola asserted Arc. Michael Olutusen Onafowokan, the first Nigerian Architect and Planner was born on the 1st of December 1912 and died on the 25th of July 1991.
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NIA FOUNDERS DAY/MEMORIAL LECTURE HONOURS LIFE & LEGACY OF LATE ARC. MICHAEL OLUTUSEN ONAFOWOKAN AT IKORODU TOWN HALL ®™√ INN Nigeria ©

INN 5 Apr 2022
Senator Tokunbo Abiru (representing Lagos East Senatorial District), Prof. Kunle Ade Wahab (President, Ikorodu Chamber Of Commerce...
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SENATOR TOKUNBO ABIRU CONGRATULATES RT. HON. FEMI GBAJABIAMILA ON HIS APPOINTMENT AS CHIEF OF STAFF TO PRESIDENT TINUBU ®™√ INN Nigeria © storage emulated 0 pictures comica cartoon16858705309354884287461883865622 "On behalf of my family and the entire people of the Lagos East Senatorial District, I heartily congratulate my dear friend and brother, the highly cerebral Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Olufemi Hakeem Gbajabiamila, on your appointment as the Chief of Staff to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, (GCFR)". "This appointment is a testament to your great capacity, Mr Speaker, particularly in the area of managing tendencies and interests across political, social, and religious divides". "Your wealth of experience as a seasoned legal practitioner with global exposure, as well as your sterling accomplishments as an erudite legislator, have undoubtedly contributed to this great feat". "For two decades in the Green Chamber, you have demonstrated great competence and remained steadfast in your loyalty to the progressive cause. Your effective leadership as the Speaker of the House of Representatives has earned the admiration and respect of many Nigerians". "You will always be remembered for championing people-oriented legislations and motions aimed at promoting the development of our dear nation, Nigeria." "Mr Speaker, it is my pleasure to join your family, friends, associates, and numerous well-wishers in celebrating with you". "Once again, I congratulate you on your well-deserved appointment and wish you the very best in your new role". "Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo and Mrs Feyisola Abiru".
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SENATOR TOKUNBO ABIRU CONGRATULATES RT. HON. FEMI GBAJABIAMILA ON HIS APPOINTMENT AS CHIEF OF STAFF TO PRESIDENT TINUBU ®™√ INN Nigeria ©

4 Jun 2023
PRINCESS FOLASHADE-OBA CONGRATULATES FEMI GBAJABIAMILA & GEORGE AKUME ON CHIEF OF STAFF, SGF APPOINTMENT BY PRESIDENT TINUBU ®™√ INN Nigeria © 393okekme8521730977788409656 The National Chairman of the Association of Local Government Vice-Chairmen of Nigeria (ALGOVC), Aarebirin Honourable (Dr) Princess Folashade Olabanji-Oba, has extended her congratulatory message to the outgoing Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila on his appointment as Chief Of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Folashade-Oba, Vice-Chairman of Ikorodu Local Government also used the same medium to celebrate former Benue State Governor, Senator George Akume on his appointment as Secretary to the Government of the Federation. Expressing her delight in the new appointment, Folashade-Oba, Global Director General of the Asiwaju Distinguished Ambassadors Movement (ADAM), said that President Tinubu's selection can be deemed a round peg in a round crevice to spearhead productive governance. The statement was released on the 4th of June 2023, on behalf of the Association of Local Government Vice-Chairmen of Nigeria (ALGOVC), and Asiwaju Distinguished Ambassadors Movement (ADAM). The release details are contained below; Hon. Princess Dr Folashade Olabanji-Oba, National Chairman (Association of Local Government Vice Chairmen of Nigeria) & Executive Vice Chairman, Ikorodu LGA, Lagos State CONGRATULATES His Excellency SENATOR GEORGE AKUME. "Dear H.E. Senator Akume", "We write to extend our warmest congratulations on your appointment as Secretary to the Federal Government of Nigeria. This is a great honour and a testament to your hard work, dedication, and outstanding leadership skills". "As you take on this important role, we do not doubt that you will bring your expertise and experience to bear in driving positive change and progress in Nigeria. Your appointment is a recognition of your commitment to public service and your unwavering dedication to the development of our great nation". "We wish you the best of luck in your new position and look forward to seeing the incredible impact you will undoubtedly make in this role. Once again, congratulations and best wishes for a successful tenure". Hon. Princess ( Dr) Folashade Olabanji-Oba Congratulates Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila On His Appointment As Chief of Staff To President Tinubu. "On behalf of my family and the Association of Local Government Vice Chairmen of Nigeria (ALGOVC), I heartily congratulate our leader, the highly cerebral Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Olufemi Hakeem Gbajabiamila, on your appointment as the Chief of Staff to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, (GCFR)". "This appointment is a testament to your great capacity, Mr Speaker, particularly in the area of managing tendencies and interests across political, social, and religious divides". "Your wealth of experience as a seasoned legal practitioner with global exposure, as well as your sterling accomplishments as an erudite legislator, have undoubtedly contributed to this great feat". "For two decades in the Green Chamber, you have demonstrated great competence and remained steadfast in your loyalty to the progressive cause. Your effective leadership as the Speaker of the House of Representatives has earned the admiration and respect of many Nigerians". "You will always be remembered for championing people-oriented legislations and motions aimed at promoting the development of our dear nation, Nigeria." "Mr Speaker, it is my pleasure to join your family, friends, associates, and numerous well-wishers in celebrating with you". "Once again, I congratulate you on your well-deserved appointment and wish you the very best in your new role".
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OVER 300 RESIDENT GETS FREE HEALTH CHECK-UP, DRUGS & CONSULTATION, COMMUNITY MEDICS TAKES OFF IN IGBOGBO BAIYEKU LCDA ®™√ INN Nigeria © 44ok4m4mm3m302597401774760105 Dwellers of Selewu community in Igbogbo Baiyeku LCDA were crammed with gratitude and commendation towards Princess Abiodun Islamiyat Oyefusi, as she kick-starts her free health scheme tagged 'Community Medics' across Lagos State. The daughter of the former Ayangburen of Ikorodu Kingdom launched her highly publicised medical program on the 3rd of June 2023. Despite the downpour which occur in the early hours of the day, Princess Abiodun Oyefusi took her team of medical experts and volunteer workers to the community and sets up canopies and chairs to cater to residents, who enlisted to profit from the health-oriented scheme. From diabetes, Blood Pressure tests, to malaria and other medical treatments, the program gave residents sufficient aid, culminating with medical physicians on the ground to advise patients with complicated health issues. A dispensary point was also created to administer free drugs to beneficiaries, as residents applauded the laudable health scheme. Speaking to members of the Press who were present, Princess Abiodun Oyefusi described the program as a means for her to support communities in Lagos State. She explained that health is vital to the well-being of every individual, which made it paramount for her to tilt towards creating the community medics initiative. "This program will randomly touch selected communities around Lagos State, I only choose to start in Ikorodu because it's my base, and as you know, charity begins from home". "Most times, people are afraid to go to the hospital for a minor check-up which would give a remedy to their health challenges, they refuse because they believe it's expensive". "That is why am propelling this course as a form of a mobile clinic to reach neighbourhoods and cater to their numerous illnesses before it gets complicated," Princess Oyefusi said Tirimisyu Uthman, a youth corper, who resides in Selewu town lauded the organisers of the program. He cheered the orderliness and effective coordination of the health scheme, which he participated in along with his father. Communicating further, he said, "The process is fast and organisers are doing a very favourable job". "I've seen medical programs like this, and before you realize it, medical practitioners will start requesting money for some particular services, but here, I can say there is nothing of such, it is free from start to finish". "If this health program is run by a private individual then I must commend their efforts towards achieving this course" Uthman asserted Another resident, Mrs Ebi Johnson conveyed joy and thanked the organisers for bringing the health program to their community. Mrs Johnson, who explained the significance of the program to herself, said the program has assisted her in reducing the cost of going to the pharmacy to undergo tests and acquire drugs. She and her 10yr old daughter gained from the program. "With a program like this, we'll easily detect sickness in our body that we're not mindful of, and also prevent lingering illness from our body" She added. In all, over 300 residents benefited from the program.
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ZEBRA CROSSING: IKORODU PECULIAR LIONS CLUB CREATES SAFE CROSSING PATH FOR SHAMS-EL-DEEN SCHOOL STUDENTS IN IKORODU ®™√ INN Nigeria © eooekemmdmm3976505122441808413 Principal of Shams-EL-Deen Junior Grammar School, Ikorodu, Mrs Kadijat Bolatito Adedeji, conveyed her heartfelt appreciation to members of Ikorodu Peculiar Lions Club, on the implementation of a Zebra crossing project for the school. The undertaking was completed by the club on the 2nd of June 2023, aimed at safeguarding students using the road subway during the school's morning and afternoon duration. Mrs Adedeji, impressed with the freewill task of the club, said the supportive job won a special place in her heart because it prioritises the safety of her pupils. According to the Principal, a safety program she had earlier attended, gave her the growing concern to assemble a similar project for the school (due to how motorists operate the road). She tells further, "I never knew how to make it happen, so it was a stuff of amazement watching the club coming out of the blue to get it done for our children". "With zebra crossing like this, it will make drivers careful in moving through this axis and keep our students safe as well". "I cannot thank members of Ikorodu Peculiar Lions Club enough for what they've done to aid the school, but I know that my God will bless them tremendously" She asserted. Illustrating the essence of the project to the students and school officials (who came out collectively to inspect the work), Lion David Akinosho, Charter President of Ikorodu Peculiar Lions Club, said Zebra crossing is a prudent footpath that serves as a caution to motorists. He continued, "The importance of this track is to assist students in traversing the road, and prevent drivers from steering recklessly". "Any driver who understands what driving is all about is meant to slow down immediately they set their sight on this Zebra crossing track". "It is a crime (and punishable offence) for motorists not to stop or decelerate, particularly when someone is utilising this route to cross the road," He said. Lion Akinosho further urged the students not to abuse the use of the pathway since they've comprehended its usage, adding that their manner of maintaining the walkway will make other road users do the same. He subsequently instructed the students to take the information given to them about the Zebra crossing to the rest of their classmates and even to their parents at home. The project was supervised by Lion Kayode Aluko, Project Coordinator, Ikorodu Peculiar Lions Club.
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