A Farewell to a Trailblazer: Arc. Aisha Bello FNIA (1960s – 2025)

By Nehemiah Anini for The Chronicles of Construction

The architectural community in Nigeria and beyond is mourning the passing of a remarkable professional, mentor, and leader — Arc. Aisha Bello, FNIA, who was called to glory on Tuesday, 9th September 2025 after a long illness.

Her departure leaves a deep void not only in the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) but across the entire built environment. Fondly known as “Aunty Aisha” by colleagues, she was more than a Fellow of the Institute — she was a pillar of strength, a mentor to many, and a consistent voice for integrity, standards, and ethics in the profession.

The sad news of her passing was formally conveyed by the Honorary General Secretary of the Nigerian Institute of Architects, Arc. Chike Chamberlain Ibeanu, FNIA, who, on behalf of the NIA President, Arc. Mobolaji Adeniyi, FNIA, and the entire architectural family, announced with “heavy hearts but total submission to the will of Almighty God” her transition.

His moving statement reflected the deep respect, admiration, and gratitude the profession holds for Arc. Bello, emphasizing her role as both a dedicated public servant and a tireless defender of the profession.

Arc. Aisha Bello’s career spanned over 35 years of service, during which she rose to become Director of Monitoring and Inspection at the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) before her retirement in December 2024.

Her professional journey began at the Department of Development Control, AMMC, where she rose through the ranks to Deputy Director, and later transitioned to FCTA, where she left a legacy of diligence, courage, and fairness.

Her reputation was built on a dogged defence of the Abuja Master Plan, professional ethics, and city management. As both an Architect and Town Planner, she brought a rare dual perspective that helped her navigate the complexities of building permits, planning regulations, and urban development.

A proud alumna of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and Erasmus University, Netherlands, Arc. Bello was not only a skilled professional but also a mentor and advocate for the next generation of architects, especially women in the profession.

Her impact extended beyond architecture into allied bodies such as the Nigerian Institute of Town Planning (NITP) and the Nigerian Environmental Society (NES), where she also held active memberships.

Until her passing, she served as the ARCON Council Representative for the FCT, further cementing her role as a bridge between practice, regulation, and advocacy.

Colleagues and mentees alike remember her for her unwavering commitment to architecture as both a profession and a calling. She was outspoken in defending standards, mentoring countless professionals, and inspiring many to see architecture as a tool for social good.

Her passing is not just a loss to her family but to the entire architectural family in Nigeria, who saw in her a beacon of professionalism and resilience.

She is survived by her children — Samira, Badiyya, Lubna, and Lubaba — and a vast professional community that will carry her memory forward.

Arc. Bello will be laid to rest today, 10th September 2025, at the Gudu Cemetery, Abuja, following funeral prayers at Apo Zone E Mosque by 1:00 p.m.

On behalf of the President of the Nigerian Institute of Architects, Arc. Mobolaji Adeniyi FNIA, the Council, and the entire architectural family, prayers go out to her children, loved ones, and colleagues.

May Almighty God grant her gentle soul Aljannah Firdaus, and may her legacy of mentorship, ethics, and professional courage continue to inspire future generations.

Prepared by Nehemiah Anini for The Chronicles of Construction
With special recognition to Arc. Chike Chamberlain Ibeanu, FNIA, Honorary General Secretary of NIA, whose heartfelt announcement captured the profound sense of loss shared across the architectural family.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top