NIA Holds 2024 Biennial General Meeting, Gets New Exco

By Victor Essang

UYO
The Nigerian Institute Of Architects (NIA), Akwa Ibom state  chapter, has elected and sworn in a new executive to pilot the affairs of the institute for the next two years, with Arc. Edidiong Ukpong PhD MNIA emerging as the chairman.
Other members of the executive are: Arc. Lawrence Bryce MNIA, Vice chairman; Arc. Imaisong Etim MNIA, Secretary; Arc. Tommy Basil MNIA, Financial Secretary; Arc. Nsikak David Umoh-akar MNIA,  Treasurer; Arc.  Victor Isaac Jackson, MNIA, PRO; Arc. Enobong B. Equere PhD, Ex-Officio
The election and inauguration of the new executive was done on Friday during the chapter 2024 Biennial General Meeting (BGM) which took place at Uyo.
In his acceptance speech, the new chairman, Ukpong thanked the members for the opportunity given him to serve.
He promised to deliver on the mandate given to him by running an inclusive government that will impact on all.
Ukpong said his administration will increase the number of registered Architects, embark on Architects house project, work on improving the image of Architects and their welfare among others.
The chairman, who called on all to join him  build the institute, solicited,”let’s see how to reposition NIA, Akwa Ibom state branch”
He thanked the outgoing chairman, Arc Enobong B. Equere,who he said has laid a firm foundation for them to build upon.
In her valedictory speech, the outgoing chairman, Equere thanked the members for the massive support she received from them that made her tenure to be successful.
She mentioned her achievements for the past four years to include increased membership, prompt attention to members welfare, Architects house project, symposium for students, advocacy, career talks to schools among others.
Good will messages were received from representatives of Secretary to the state government, commissioners, and other sister institutes in the built industry who graced the event to show solidarity.
The BGM featured keynote presentation by Prof Edem on Disputes and conflict toresolution in the construction industry:best practices in construction with panel of discussion on the sub theme and presentation of awards.
Highpoint of the event was swearing-in and handing over ceremony.