Nigerian architectural conservation: A case for grass-roots engagement for renewal

Abstract

The article explores various issues related to heritage architecture-particularly with respect to attitudes, resources for conservation, advantages, challenges and impact made to date-majorly in the context of the Nigerian nation state. It posits that though a wealth of outstanding buildings exists, a major factor limiting meaningful conservation appears to be indecision as to actual modus operandi, apart from financial and logistics constraints. Nigeria's British colonial experience is highlighted as a major source of non-traditional heritage architecture, giving rise to direct legacies of colonization, Brazilo-Portuguese-adapted architectural samples and the hybrid British-Sierra Leonean house type. These have impacted traditional building culture to create a virile vernacular. Specific examples of outstanding buildings (within a 60-km radius of Ile-Ife) are presented, highlighting their heritage qualities, in the light of the real threat of demolition. Analysis of samples is based on typical features; this provides a basis for identification of stylistic roots in the vernacular. The article concludes by suggesting the way forward as being one in which government still takes the lead, but massively mobilizes grassroots support for sustainability. With the large stock of heritage-grade residential buildings spread all over the country, renewal (for continued occupation and general utility)-rather than mere restoration for conservation-is clearly indicated.

Architectural Renewal: A Rising Dawn in Ile-Ife?

“…Even though the reality on ground in Nigeria, generally, is that there appears to be little or no regard for heritage architecture -succinctly portrayed by no meaningful government effort being deployed to its conservation [7] -there seems to be a subtle awakening of awareness in Ile-Ife. The criminal negligence being demonstrated by the agencies ostensibly conferred with the responsibility for a virile, effective drive to prevent the nation's heritage structures from perishing, is succinctly encapsulated in the tragedy that recently befell the "Ilojo Bar" in Lagos (referred to earlier).…”

“…Apart from the general national apathy (mostly born of a lack of the political will to effect the needed change [2]), towns such as Ile-Ife have their own peculiar socio-cultural issues constraining investment in architectural conservation. Paramount among these are the "greener pastures" syndrome, among young people, and the lack of the funds to engage in it, by the, usually, aged folks left behind in such buildings [3].…”

Building Renewal: The Centrality of Eventual Occupancy in Design Decisions

“…Despite the fast-paced nature of modern living (and the increasing premium placed on the value of land), the conservation of architectural monuments will forever be topical. This is so for a variety of reasons, which include: a fundamental human psychological need for anchorage with the past; visual relief, akin to serendipity, some such monuments provide; alternative accommodation (in places of urban residential stress), and the real economic benefits of architecture-based tourism [1], [2].…”

“…In much of Africa, this is not so; specifically, in Nigeria, the practice is virtually non-existent. Even the tentative steps taken by environmental-interest groups (such as LEGACY), have not only been met with indifference on the part of government; recently, a major undertaking by LEGACY was frustrated -and eventually demolished outright [4], [5]. In light of the prevalent governmental neglect, it should not be surprising that corporate organisations in Nigeria also, generally, do not see the need to get involved.…”

Analysis of Regulative Systems for Heritage Protection in Nigeria

“…Heritage architecture has been described as 'buildings of a bygone era which are imbued with cultural significance' (Osasona, 2017, p. 713). Undoubtedly, unrelenting population growth increases the risk of neglect, loss or damage to heritage architecture where there is public apathy about their protection and the absence of a conservation culture (Osasona, 2017). The magnitude of the challenge is captured by the poor state of ancient city walls within the conurbations of Kano (Mohamed, 2018) and Benin (Kiunguyu, 2019).…”