By Debo Adeoye, Ibadan, Nigeria
The Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has taken a major step toward expanding its academic frontiers with the formal approval of the Faculty of Architecture Building Project—an initiative that marks the birth of a long-awaited vision and a defining moment in the university’s architectural journey.
The landmark approval, granted on November 6, 2025, by the University Management led by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adebayo Simeon Bamire, signals the official commencement of plans for the establishment of a full-fledged Faculty of Architecture at the prestigious institution.
The idea of creating a Faculty of Architecture was first conceived in 2022 by the immediate past Head of the Department of Architecture, Prof. Adesoji David Jiboye, shortly after the National Universities Commission (NUC) approved six new programmes under the proposed faculty. The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Bamire, was quick to embrace and support the vision, which has now grown into a university-backed mission to strengthen architectural education in Nigeria.
The initiative gained renewed energy on May 19, 2025, during the Ife Architecture Summit 2.0, organized by the Ife Architecture Students’ Association (IFASA). The event was graced by the President of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), Arc. Mobolaji Adeola Adeniyi (PNIA, FNIA), representatives of the NIA Osun Chapter and academic staff of the department of Architecture who paid a courtesy visit to the Vice-Chancellor. Further discussions during the meeting reignited the push for the faculty’s establishment, with the NIA President pledging full support toward its realization.
The presentation of the Faculty’s Building Project proposal to the university management marked a historic milestone in OAU’s academic development. The design concept was presented by representatives of the Alumni of the Ife Architecture School, represented by Arc. Akintunde Akinajo, Arc. Dare Sanni, Arc. Femi Ogunlana, Arc Matthew Ajayi and the current Head of Department, Dr. Pius Olayeni.
During the session, the NIA Osun Chapter presented an Award of Excellence to Vice-Chancellor Prof. Bamire in recognition of his unwavering support for architectural innovation and educational growth within the university.
Following the management’s approval, a symbolic visit to the proposed project site was conducted, during which prayers were offered — an act that underscored both the spiritual and institutional significance of the project’s commencement.
The proposed Faculty of Architecture will house five departments , namely:
Architecture and Design
Interior Design
Landscape Architecture
Urban Design
Furniture and Product Design
Drawing inspiration from Israeli architect Arieh Sharon’s iconic master plan for OAU, the proposed building will embody the university’s philosophy of “ Organic Architecture”, expressing harmony with nature, topography, and sustainable environmental practices.
The design places the Department of Architecture at the central core, encircled by the other departments — a concept reflecting OAU’s architectural legacy while integrating modern elements of sustainability, lighting efficiency, and natural ventilation.
Perched on the university’s scenic hills, the building is envisioned to become one of the architectural masterpieces of the Great Ife campus, reaffirming OAU’s reputation as Africa’s most beautiful university environment.
With an estimated project cost of ₦15 billion, the university is seeking the partnership and support of alumni, philanthropists, national and international agencies, corporate organizations, and development partners to bring the vision to life.
“All contributions and partnerships toward the realization of this historic development will be accorded due recognition,” the university stated.
Interested partners and sponsors are encouraged to contact the School Management or visit the Department of Architecture, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife , for further details.
As the dream of establishing a Faculty of Architecture at OAU moves closer to reality, the initiative stands as a testament to visionary leadership, alumni commitment, and a shared passion for excellence. The project not only promises to reshape the future of architectural education in Nigeria but also reinforces OAU’s enduring legacy as a cradle of innovation, creativity, and academic distinction.
