When you talk about catching them young and true dedication, it takes a great mind with passion to make it real — especially when you are dealing with teenagers and children.
A PRESIDENTIAL COMMITMENT TO THE FUTURE
The Architects Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON) in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has just concluded its 3-week summer program in Kuje, themed “Building Tomorrow’s Professionals Today.” The closing ceremony held on August 22, 2025, was nothing short of inspiring.
The President of ARCON, Arc (Sir) Dipo Ajayi, FNIA, PARCON, alongside dignitaries such as Arc. Erekpitan Ola-Adisa (Professor, University of Jos), ARCON Registrar Arc. Mohammed Itopa Sule, Arc. Aliyu Muhammad Saifudeen, FNIA (ARCON Chairman, Practice Committee), and the keynote speaker Dr. Mrs. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, Mandate Secretary, FCT Women and Children Affairs, all graced the occasion.
Their presence was not ceremonial — it was a powerful show of encouragement. They didn’t just attend; they inspired, motivated, and reassured the children that their future is worth every investment.
In his opening remarks, Arc. Dipo Ajayi stressed that “knowledge is key — and most importantly, it is about taking advantage of opportunities provided.” He also emphasized that skills are a treasure, citing how artisans abroad are highly paid.
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Arc. Aliyu Muhammad Saifudeen, FNIA, Chairman of the Practice Committee, added that this training would not terminate after the holiday. Instead, students would return for 6 months of continuous training every holiday — ensuring sustainability and growth.
Every student was also presented with a Certificate of Participation, jointly signed by the Registrar of ARCON and the Office of the Minister of Housing and Urban Development — a symbol of recognition and encouragement to keep the learning spirit alive.
ENCOURAGING TALENTS AND INSPIRING DREAMS
A particularly moving moment came when a talented student, Miss Miracle, who enjoys drawing and storytelling, was showcased. She had documented the 3-week activities through her art and writings.
- The Registrar encouraged her talent with a cash gift of ₦50,000.
- The Keynote Speaker requested that the ARCON President permit her to personally publish the girl’s book.
- She was also invited to sit beside the ARCON President and honored as an “Honorable Personnel” — a moment of pride and inspiration for every child present.
This act of encouragement proved that “catching them young” is not just words, but action backed with support and recognition.
HANDS-ON SKILLS AND STUDENT SHOWCASES
Throughout the camp, the children were taught practical skills including tiling, masonry, plumbing, interior decoration, and painting.
At the closing ceremony, some students narrated their experiences while others showcased what they had learned — particularly in plumbing and interior works — proving that within three weeks, a strong foundation had been built.
THE SEEDLINGS OF THE FUTURE
In her keynote address, Dr. Benjamins-Laniyi gifted the children seedlings and fertilizers, donated by the Office of the Wife of the President. She explained that:
- If properly managed, each student could earn about ₦150,000 in a few months.
- The project is also a competition, with the overall winner set to receive ₦500,000 and a one-year academic scholarship.
The ARCON President urged the children never to despise small beginnings, stressing that “no gift is too small if you remain focused — the key is to aim for the highest point.”
TEAMWORK THAT MADE IT POSSIBLE
During our exclusive interview with Arc. Biola Akinola, he narrated the story behind this 3-week camp. He explained the vision, courage, and hard work required to manage over 120 teenagers from different schools, backgrounds, and communities.
He emphasized that this was only possible through team collaboration, guided by Arc Prof. Erekpitan Ola-Adisa, who helped put together the curriculum on short notice.
From trainers to coordinators, from technical support to logistics, every role came together seamlessly. As Arc. Akinola put it: “It was not just about training, but about creating discipline, building confidence, and instilling hope.”
The atmosphere at the closing ceremony was filled with joy, encouragement, and purpose. What began as an idea had now become a legacy — inspiring children not only to dream, but to act, to create, and to believe in their potential.
Pictures of the event Link – https://photos.app.goo.gl/EHVVXVNzf8YbooPBA
Video highlights coming soon!
A BIG SHOUT OUT TO OUR SPONSORS
At The Chronicles of Construction (TCOC), this coverage was made possible by the incredible support of our sponsors:
- West African Ceramics Ltd
- Flexi-Clay
- Broadmind Special Projects Ltd
- Reform Sports Group
- Costech Computers
- Uncaged Creations
- C.Y.F.T
Their contributions ensure we have the logistics, reach, and ability to cover and share activities across the built environment with the public and all professional bodies.
We plan to keep this spirit alive and stronger, but this can only be achieved through more collaborations with professional bodies and increased sponsorships from building material manufacturers who believe in shaping the future of the built environment.
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