The Italian Ambassador to Nigeria, Roberto Mengoni, has described Nigeria as one of the world’s most vibrant urban landscapes, driven by rapid city expansion, innovation, and growing opportunities in architecture and design.
He noted that Nigerian cities are increasingly prioritising sustainable urban development, opening up new prospects for infrastructure growth, better living conditions, and creative solutions to emerging urban challenges.
Mengoni made the remarks on Wednesday in Abuja during the inaugural Italian Design Day, organised in collaboration with the Nigerian Institute of Architects.
According to him, events like Italian Design Day provide a platform for showcasing a vital aspect of Italian culture, particularly its globally recognised strength in architecture, design, and creative industries.
He added that the initiative fosters international dialogue and reflects Italy’s long-standing reputation built on a fusion of creativity, craftsmanship, and industrial collaboration.
Mengoni explained that Italian architects and designers have consistently worked together to create structures and products that balance functionality, innovation, and aesthetics, setting global benchmarks across various design sectors.
Referencing renowned architect Renzo Piano, he stressed that architecture carries significant responsibility, especially as rapid urbanisation worldwide brings challenges such as sustainability, housing shortages, transportation issues, and the need for improved public spaces.
He identified countries like Nigeria as key players in this global shift, noting that cities such as Lagos and Abuja are evolving into centres of creativity, innovation, and enterprise.
Also speaking, the Chairperson of the Nigerian Institute of Architects, Yemi Shola-Adebiyi, said the collaboration offers architecture students valuable international exposure through engagement with top Italian professionals.
She noted that the programme enhances learning by promoting interaction, knowledge-sharing, and professional development, equipping students with broader perspectives in architecture and design.
Shola-Adebiyi added that the three-day event provides practical training and encourages collaboration between Nigerian students and visiting Italian architects.
She described the initiative as significant, noting that it marks the first time Italian Design Day is being held in Abuja, creating opportunities for partnerships and creative exchange.
Although the event is in its tenth edition and typically hosted in Lagos, she said stakeholders ensured its relocation to Abuja to benefit students in the capital.
She further explained that the programme began with a masterclass for students under the institute’s mentorship scheme, emphasising hands-on training and early career development.
According to her, the mentorship model allows students to build practical skills during their academic years, improving their readiness for professional practice.
The event also featured presentations by visiting architects from Parasite 2.0 Studio, who explored how temporary spaces can be transformed into lasting architectural solutions using experimental design approaches.
Students from institutions including the University of Abuja, Nile University of Nigeria, and Baze University participated in interactive sessions, engaging the visiting architects with questions and discussions.