By Miftaudeen Raji

A quantity surveyor with extensive experience in the construction industry, Eniola Akintunde, has linked misconceptions, high costs, and policy gaps to the slow adaptation of sustainable architecture in Nigeria. 

In an exclusive interview, Akintunde highlighted that despite the well-documented benefits of sustainable architecture—such as enhanced energy efficiency, reduced environmental impact, and the use of eco-friendly materials—the adoption of these practices within Nigeria’s construction sector remains sluggish.

Akintunde, who has worked on several high-profile projects and recently conducted research on the topic, stated, “ The environmental impact of traditional construction methods is well-documented. High carbon emissions, excessive energy consumption, and waste generation are just a few of the issues that have plagued Nigeria’s construction sector. Sustainable architecture offers a solution by emphasizing energy efficiency, minimal environmental impact, and the use of eco-friendly materials.

“However, widespread adoption in Nigeria has been slow due to misconceptions about high costs and a lack of supportive policies.”

She added that, contrary to popular belief, sustainable architecture does not have to be expensive.

“Cost-effective construction methods such as modular construction, the use of locally sourced materials, and passive design strategies can significantly reduce expenses while promoting sustainability. Modular construction, for instance, allows for the efficient use of materials and reduces waste, while passive design focusses on maximising natural light and ventilation, thereby reducing energy costs,” Akintunde added.

Suggesting the way out of the problem, Akintunde called for a shift in mindset for stakeholders used to the traditional methods.

She also called on the federal government to implement and enforce policies that incentivise sustainable construction in the country. 

Akintunde said, “The challenge lies in changing the mindset of industry stakeholders who are accustomed to traditional methods. As a registered quantity surveyor, I have seen firsthand how the adoption of these strategies can lead to substantial savings in the long run. Educating developers, contractors, and policymakers on the economic benefits of sustainable construction is crucial for driving this change.

“Policy initiatives are key to promoting green building practices on a larger scale. Nigeria must implement and enforce policies that incentivise sustainable construction. For example, tax rebates for developers who incorporate green technologies or mandates for energy efficiency in building codes can drive the industry toward greener practices.

“The Nigerian government should also invest in research and development to support the local production of sustainable materials, which would reduce reliance on costly imports.”

She noted that integration of technology is essential in overcoming the challenges associated with sustainable construction in the country. 

“Building Information Modelling (BIM), for instance, allows for precise planning and resource management, reducing waste and ensuring that projects remain within budget. Additionally, advanced energy modelling software can be used to design buildings that are optimised for energy efficiency, leading to lower operational costs,” Akintunde added.