By Awyetu Asabe Hope
Nigeria is emerging as one of the world’s most dynamic urban environments, driven by rapid city growth, innovation, and expanding opportunities in architecture and design, the Italian Ambassador to Nigeria, Roberto Mengoni, has said.
He made this known on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, in Abuja at the inaugural Italian Design Day, organised in collaboration with the Nigerian Institute of Architects.
Mengoni noted that Nigerian cities were increasingly embracing sustainable urban development, creating new opportunities for infrastructure expansion, improved living standards, and innovative solutions to urban challenges.
He said initiatives like Italian Design Day allow the embassy to showcase Italy’s global reputation in architecture, design, and creative industries, built over decades through a blend of creativity, craftsmanship, and industrial collaboration.
Citing renowned Italian architect Renzo Piano, Mengoni emphasised that architecture carries responsibility, especially as rapidly expanding cities face challenges such as housing deficits, mobility concerns, sustainability, and the need for quality public spaces.
Speaking at the event, NIA Chairperson, Yemi Shola-Adebiyi, said the programme provided students with valuable international exposure.
She added that participants engaged directly with visiting Italian architects, gaining practical knowledge and skills through masterclasses, presentations, and interactive sessions.
Shola-Adebiyi noted that the Abuja edition marked the first time Italian Design Day was hosted outside Lagos, extending benefits to students in the nation’s capital.
She said established mentorship programmes ensured continuous training for aspiring architects, helping students develop their skills before internships.
The three-day event included presentations from studios such as Parasite 2.0, which explored transforming temporary spaces into permanent architectural solutions, and emphasised innovative, experimental design approaches.
Students from the University of Abuja, Nile University of Nigeria, and Baze University participated, exchanging ideas and interacting with the visiting architects.
Mengoni said the programme also strengthens professional collaboration between Italy and Nigeria while showcasing innovative solutions to urbanisation challenges in Nigerian cities.
