The Nigerian Institute of Architects and the Ife Architecture Students’ Association at Obafemi Awolowo University have launched a nationwide design competition to honour Anthony Okoye, Founder and Managing Director of Design Genre Limited, as he turns 60.
The competition, themed ‘Reimagining the Urban Block of Nigerian Cities’, challenges architecture students across the country to develop innovative solutions for urban living challenges.
A statement from the organisers revealed that participants must propose sustainable and replicable design ideas addressing the complexities of Nigerian cities. The competition demands creativity, conceptual strength, and a deep understanding of environmental, social, and economic sustainability.
According to the statement, the contest is open to undergraduate and postgraduate architecture students in Nigerian universities. Teams of up to five members, including at least one urban or regional planning student, are required to participate.
Competitors will select a representative urban block from areas such as Ebute Metta, Yaba, or Lagos Island, and develop a sustainable redesign focusing on density, liveability, and resilience.
Entries must include two A1 boards in PDF format showing site analysis, master plan, key drawings, 3D visuals, and sustainability strategies. A 1,000–1,500-word report detailing the concept, challenges, and approach must accompany each submission.
The statement disclosed that prizes totalling N3m would be awarded to the top three entries. The first-prize winner will receive N1.5m, the second N1m, and the third N500,000.
Registration, which opened on September 28, 2025, will close on November 30, 2025. Jury deliberations are scheduled for December 10, with winners to be announced on December 15, 2025. Participation is free through a Google Form registration link.
Speaking on the collaboration, the Honorary General Secretary of the Nigerian Institute of Architects, Chike Ibeanu, described the initiative as a crucial connection between academic learning and professional practice.
“The NIA is proud to be part of this initiative that connects academic creativity with professional relevance. Competitions like this serve as incubators for innovative thinking, helping to shape a new generation of architects who understand the complexities of Nigerian urban spaces and are committed to building more resilient cities,” he stated.
The IFASA President, John Ojo, described the competition as both a celebration of Okoye’s milestone and recognition of his contribution to architectural education in Nigeria.
“Architect Anthony Okoye has been a consistent pillar of support for design competitions at Obafemi Awolowo University for well over a decade, inspiring generations of students to think critically about architecture and sustainability. His global experience, spanning Europe, North America, and Africa, brings a rare perspective to architectural practice, and his advocacy for environmentally responsible design challenges young professionals like us to create spaces that are both innovative and future-ready,” Ojo explained.
Okoye is recognised as one of Nigeria’s leading architects, known for his innovative design approach and leadership in sustainable urban development. An alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University, he is a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Architects, a Member of the Royal Institute of British Architects, a Trustee of the Green Building Council of Nigeria, a Member of the Institute of Directors, and the past Treasurer of RIBA-USA (Philadelphia chapter).
