Sanwo-Olu promotes indigenous designs at Ecobank Build and Design Expo in Lagos, urging collaboration, innovation and quality for global competitiveness
The Lagos State Governor, represented by Mrs Bukola Agbaminoja, delivered his remarks at the Ecobank Build and Design Expo themed “How We Build, How We Live” on Wednesday at the Ecobank Pan African Centre, Victoria Island.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to building a modern, inclusive and resilient city through innovative, environmentally friendly designs that serve both present and future generations.
“The bridges, roads, housing and public spaces we create must embody a Lagos that is forward-thinking, inclusive, resilient and sustainable,” Sanwo-Olu said. “Good design and solid construction are not luxury items, they are necessities.”
He commended Ecobank for providing a platform that elevates the work of young professionals, artisans and small businesses who transform creative ideas into functional spaces.
Panelists at the expo emphasised the need for stronger collaboration, standardisation and government support to make local designs more attractive to international markets.
Tola Akerele, CEO of National Theatre Nigeria and founder of iDESIGN, stressed investment in people and training as essential for scaling Nigerian design. She also called for more research, backed by government, to refine local products to global standards.
Aisha Lawal, CEO of Lash Interiors, highlighted challenges in material sourcing and scaling production. She noted that quality assurance requires consistent standards to appeal to global buyers.
Adeyemi Shokunbi, Architect and Creative Director of NANA Collective Studio, spoke about returning to Nigeria after training in the UK to promote indigenous designs. He lamented resistance from institutions but stressed Nigeria’s design potential.
Patrick Koshoni, CEO of Patrick Waheed Design Consultancy, argued that Nigerian designs are inherently globally relevant. He defined local design as embedding culture in projects and said collaboration requires “courage, open minds and patience.”
Mobolaji Adeniyi, President of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), echoed calls for collaboration and quality assurance. She acknowledged concerns over low-quality local products but assured that NIA is working with professionals to ensure consistent standards.
The three-day expo features over 60 global and local exhibitors, showcasing innovations in construction, design and sustainable materials, with a strong emphasis on elevating Nigeria’s creative and cultural identity.
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