Architects in Lagos have called for the preservation of Nigeria’s cultural heritage through deliberate representation of architecture in film and media and the integration of innovation and technology to improve living spaces.
The appeal took centre stage during discussions on the opening day of the three-day Lagos Architects Forum 2026, themed ‘Lagos Architecture: The Movie’, held on Wednesday at the National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos.
Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Architects, Lagos Chapter, Arc Abiodun Fatuyi, said the forum explored how the entertainment industry can amplify the role of architecture in shaping the city’s identity and future.
Fatuyi said, “This year’s theme is dynamic because we looked at Lagos as a whole and realised how we, as architects, relate to its potential.”
He stressed that architecture plays a critical role across sectors, particularly in entertainment, where physical spaces define experiences and innovation, saying, “The entertainment industry is really strong here in Lagos, and there’s no strength in that industry if we do not highlight the effects or what the architects bring on board. The architect is very critical to the development of every sector.”
Fatuyi added that architects must ensure cultural heritage is preserved while embracing modern advancements.
“As architects, we advocate for our culture to be preserved and be interwoven with new ideas, innovations, and new technology. And that’s the way to progress,” he said.
He cited iconic structures such as the National Theatre as examples of how architectural ingenuity can revive heritage assets, lamenting the neglect of other public infrastructure.
“We cannot overemphasise the use of a building like this, the National Theatre. We know what it used to be and what it is now. Local architects here in Nigeria led the refurbishment of this building,” he said.
The NIA president, Arc Sani Saulawa, urged architects to expand their relevance beyond traditional practice into creative and digital spaces while addressing societal challenges.
“The theme invites us to step more intentionally into spaces beyond conventional practice, including the creative industries, digital environments, and experiential design. It calls on us to expand the boundaries of what it means to be an architect in today’s world,” Saulawa said.
He added that architects must prioritise sustainability and inclusivity in their designs.
“We must design for resilience, inclusivity, and long-term sustainability. We must tell stories not only of beauty but also of equity, functionality, and environmental stewardship,” he said.
Filmmaker Kunle Afolayan highlighted the strong link between architecture and filmmaking, noting that built environments shape storytelling and industry growth.
“Filmmakers and architects are interconnected. What we call locations is what others call architecture. A film documents places in time,” Afolayan said.
He warned that the growth of Nigeria’s film industry depends on deliberate investment in purpose-built infrastructure: “Without architecture, the film industry cannot scale. Lagos is a creative powerhouse, but we lack purpose-built studios, flexible performance spaces, integrated creative hubs, and immersive, world-class cinemas. This is where architects step in,” he said.
Afolayan added that architecture provides the foundation for storytelling in film.
“If film is the story, architecture is the stage,” he said.
Representing the Lagos State Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, Special Adviser Arc. Bolanle Olukare said the state government remains committed to leveraging architecture to drive cultural and economic development.
“This year’s theme couldn’t have been more appropriate, coming at a time when the government is making efforts to position the entertainment and tourism sectors and define Lagos as a thriving cultural capital,” Olukare noted.
She urged stakeholders to embrace collaboration and innovation to improve the built environment, saying, “As a front-runner in the built industry, your institute should be in tune with the dynamics of technology to bring about institutional change and provide solutions to societal problems.”
Participants at the forum emphasised that integrating culture, innovation, and architecture into media and urban planning would not only preserve Lagos’ heritage but also position the city as a global creative and cultural hub.
