The permanent secretary, Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, Mrs. Esuabana Nko Asanye has announced a collaboration between Zhengzhou and Shenzhen Universities of China and the University of Abuja to establish a Faculty of Architecture.
She said the initiative would help revive traditional Nigerian architectural practices and reduce the country’s housing deficit.
Esuabana made the statement in Abuja when a delegation from higher education institutions in the People’s Republic of China paid her a courtesy visit.
She noted that the University of Abuja, established in 1988, was founded with a mandate to offer both conventional and distance learning programs. According to her, the university’s vision emphasises academic excellence and national unity, aligning with its mission to provide high-quality instruction, research and public service.
She further stressed that the collaboration will focus on green and low-carbon technologies, including building-integrated photovoltaics, energy-efficient architectural designs and the adoption of renewable energy solutions to boost sustainability in Nigeria’s construction sector.
In a statement issued by the ministry’s head of press and public relations, Mrs. Pauline Sule, Esuabana commended the Chinese delegation for partnering with the university and the ministry, describing the collaboration as a step toward Nigeria’s advancement.
Earlier, the leader of the Chinese delegation, Cao Di said that the School of Architecture at Zhengzhou University has specialised in architecture since its founding in 1958. She explained that the school currently offers three undergraduate programmes – architecture, urban and rural planning and landscape architecture.
Cao Di expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating that they are eager to share their vast knowledge and experience to support Nigeria’s socio-economic development through sustainable architectural practices.
