In a bold step toward empowering the next generation of skilled professionals, the Architects Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON) has unveiled a new strategic framework to kick-start operations at the School of Architectural Technicians in Kuje, Abuja.
The initiative was made possible through a formal collaboration between ARCON and the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, approved by Minister Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa.
“This groundbreaking initiative is a direct reflection of the bold and people-centered Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who continues to inspire a national rebirth across sectors by prioritizing skill, youth empowerment, and professional excellence,”
— Arc. Sir (Dr.) Dipo Ajayi, President of ARCON.
Ajayi highlighted that the minister’s strong commitment to capacity-building has set the foundation for the school to grow into a major centre for practical training and technical education within Nigeria’s built environment sector.
ARCON’s roadmap includes several impactful programmes, such as:
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A three-week summer skill acquisition camp in August 2025, aimed at pupils in Primary 4 to 6 and JSS 1 to 3. The programme is fully sponsored and free for all participants, aligning with the government’s goal of introducing practical skills early in education.
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Artisan Certification Programmes, scheduled to begin in October 2025. These will cover hands-on training in trades like masonry, plumbing, tiling, POP, electrical installations, and painting.
The regulatory body is also forming key industry partnerships with organizations such as Dulux Paint (Painters’ Academy), Association of Tilers of Nigeria, So Tech Africa Limited (Home Automation Training), Enable Green Consulting (Green Building and 3D Modelling), and Costech Computers to provide recognized certifications.
In addition, ARCON is working toward official recognition from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), aiming to formally register the centre under Nigeria’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) scheme.
Efforts are also underway to engage local government bodies. During a recent visit to the newly elected President General of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), ARCON discussed plans to sponsor local government staff for training and embed architects in all 774 local government areas to enhance grassroots architectural practice.
Ajayi noted that security measures are being developed to protect everyone involved in the programme—from students to facilitators and visitors.
“ARCON remains steadfast in its resolve to support the ministry’s vision and to deliver on the Renewed Hope Agenda: building a nation where technical competence meets global excellence, where opportunities are democratised, and where the architecture and construction industries serve as true engines of national development.
This is more than an education project — it is a legacy initiative, and together, we are laying the foundation stones for Nigeria’s brighter future,”
— Arc. Dipo Ajayi.
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