Architects Registration Council of Nigeria

The Architects Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON) is a statutory body tasked with regulating the architectural profession within Nigeria. It was established under the ARCON Act, Decree No 10 of 1969, amended by Decree No 43 of 1990, and operates under the Architects (Registration, Etc.) Act Cap A19 The Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.

Enacted to uphold standards of competence and professionalism, the ARCON Act empowers the council to set and periodically elevate the benchmarks for individuals seeking to practice architecture in Nigeria. ARCON's primary mandate encompasses the enforcement of standards of knowledge and skill required for membership in the architectural profession.

The council is responsible for maintaining a register of qualified architects entitled to practice, ensuring adherence to ethical standards and accountability within the profession. It also issues a code of professional conduct and competence and imposes sanctions if a finding of unacceptable professional conduct or serious professional incompetence is made against an architect. Through its accreditation processes, ARCON also endorses educational programmes and professional development initiatives in the field of architecture across Nigeria. By fostering collaboration and upholding the standards of practice, ARCON helps to advance the profession and safeguard the interests of both practitioners and the public.

History
The Architects Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON) was established in 1969 by the Federal Military Government of Nigeria through Decree No. 10. Prior to the establishment of ARCON, there was a pressing need to ensure that standards of competence and professionalism were upheld in the practice of architecture.

ARCON was created with the primary objective of regulating architectural education, training, and practice in Nigeria. It aimed to address the lack of oversight and accountability that characterised the architectural industry at the time. Through the enactment of Decree No. 10, ARCON was granted the authority to set standards for architectural education, determine qualifications for registration, and maintain a register of qualified architects.

Over the years, ARCON has evolved in response to changes in the architectural landscape and advancements in professional standards. The council has undergone several revisions and reforms to enhance its regulatory functions and adapt to emerging challenges and opportunities in the field of architecture.

One significant milestone in ARCON's history was the review of its founding decree in 1996. This review led to the establishment of the Architects Registration Board of Nigeria (ARBON) as an independent body responsible for conducting architecture qualifying examinations and registering qualified architects.

In 2007, ARCON embarked on the development of a strategic plan aimed at refreshing and redirecting the Council towards a more efficient and effective regulatory regime. This strategic initiative underscored ARCON's regulatory functions.

Throughout its history, the council's role in setting and maintaining standards has contributed to the development of the architectural industry in Nigeria, ensuring that only qualified and competent architects practice in the country.

Legal basis
The Architects Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON) operates under the legal framework established by the Architects (Registration, Etc.) Act Cap A19 The Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004. This Act, formerly known as Decree No 10 of 1969, amended by Decree No. 43 of 1990, provides the statutory authority for ARCON's existence and defines its mandate in regulating the architectural profession within Nigeria.

The Act empowers ARCON to set standards for individuals seeking to practice architecture, and to periodically update these standards as necessary. Additionally, it grants ARCON the authority to maintain a register of qualified architects entitled to practice, sanction unacceptable professional conduct and possibly the withdrawal of architectural licence in cases of serious professional incompetence and ensuring adherence to ethical standards.

Over the years, the Act has undergone amendments and revisions to reflect changes in the architectural landscape and evolving societal needs. It serves as the cornerstone of ARCON's regulatory functions and guides the council in protecting the interests of both practitioners and the public.

Structure and governance
The Architects Registration Council of Nigeria operates within a structured framework, guided by statutory provisions and a team of professionals. The council is composed of representatives from various sectors, ensuring a comprehensive oversight. The Ministry of Works and Housing oversees the appointment process and regulatory functions of ARCON, with the Minister having the authority to regulate council membership as necessary to meet evolving needs and circumstances.

The council's leadership is anchored by the President of ARCON, who provides strategic direction. Arc Dipo Ajayi assumed the role of President on 12 June 2018, succeeding Arc. Umaru Aliyu. Alongside the President, key officeholders include the Vice President, Registrar, and Treasurer.

Council membership
The council comprises 49 members appointed from diverse backgrounds and sectors to represent the interests of stakeholders in the architectural profession. According to statutory provisions, the council membership includes:


 * Four persons appointed by the Minister to represent various interests in architecture.
 * One representative appointed by the Minister from each state of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.
 * Four representatives from accredited universities with faculties of architecture, ensuring rotational representation.
 * Four members appointed by the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA).

Members of the council are required to be fully registered architects under the provisions of the Act. Additionally, appointees must have a minimum of ten years of experience in architectural practice at the time of appointment.The qualification, tenure of office, powers, and procedures of the council are detailed in the First Schedule of the Act, ensuring transparency in council operations. Furthermore, the Minister holds the authority to regulate council membership, adjusting it as necessary to meet evolving needs and circumstances.

Functions
The Architects Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON) is tasked with the registration of architects, accreditation of architectural programs, and regulation of architectural practice.

Registration and accreditation
The registration of architects in Nigeria is governed by the Architects (Registration, Etc.) Act, which specifies the qualifications and procedures for registration with the Architects Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON). The Act recognises various qualifications obtained from approved institutions, including Nigerian universities, Commonwealth Association of Architects recognised schools, foreign schools producing accepted Nigerian architects, and other approved qualifications. Additionally, individuals seeking registration undergo character certification and provide proof of reciprocity, if applicable.

Individual Architect Registration
Individuals seeking registration as architects with ARCON follow a prescribed procedure, which includes completing application forms, providing necessary documents such as educational certificates, passing professional practice competence examinations, and obtaining character certifications. The Council conducts a preliminary scrutiny of applications, and the Registration Committee reviews recommendations before final approval. Successful applicants are registered upon payment of prescribed fees and are subject to annual renewal.

In order to achieve full registration with ARCON, individuals must fulfill several requirements. This includes obtaining a Bachelor's degree from an accredited school of architecture, followed by enrollment in a two-year Master's Degree programme. Additionally, candidates must possess a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Certificate and complete a minimum of two years of practical training, known as pupillage, under the supervision of a registered Architect.

ARCON maintains a register of architects categorised as fully registered, provisionally registered Stage 1 and 2. Fully registered architects are entitled to practice independently, while provisionally registered architects may practice under supervision. These categories are majorly based on qualifications and experience.

Registration of Architectural Firms
Architectural firms in Nigeria are also subject to registration with ARCON, based on specified criteria outlined in the Act. The Act distinguishes between different categories of architectural firms, including those incorporated under the Companies and Allied Matters Act, limited liability companies with professional architects as directors and shareholders, and multidisciplinary consultancy firms offering services in the building industry. The registration process involves submitting application forms, documentary evidence of compliance with regulations, and endorsements from sponsors.

Accreditation of Architectural Institutions
In addition to individual registration, ARCON accredits institutions offering architecture programmes in Nigeria. The accreditation process involves evaluating the facilities, faculty qualifications, curriculum, and adherence to required standards. Representatives from ARCON conduct inspections and assessments to ensure compliance with accreditation requirements.

Use of the title "architect"
The Architects (Registration, etc.) Act establishes strict regulations regarding the use of the title "architect" in Nigeria, in relation to architectural business and practice. These regulations are designed to ensure that individuals using the title meet specific criteria and prescriptions set forth by the Act. According to Section 1 of the Act, only Nigerian citizens who are registered under the Architects Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON) are permitted to use the title "architect." This is to safeguard the interests of both practitioners and the public. Individuals who are not registered architects under the Act are expressly prohibited from using the title "architect" in connection with architectural building plans or any business related to architecture, except in cases pertaining to ship construction, landscape, or golf-links.

ARCON is tasked with the responsibility of enforcing these regulations and ensuring compliance with the provisions of the Act. Violations of the Act's provisions regarding the use of the title "architect" may result in penalties and disciplinary actions.

Collaborations
The Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) and the Architects Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON) share a collaborative relationship for the regulation of the study and practice of architecture within Nigeria. Their collaboration spans various initiatives, promoting the interests of architectural practitioners and the public.

Together, the NIA and ARCON work closely to conduct periodic accreditation exercises at schools offering architecture programmes across the country. Through these exercises, they ensure that architectural education meets the required standards and prepares students adequately for professional practice. Additionally, both organisations collaborate on setting and updating guidelines and regulations for architectural practice within Nigeria.

The NIA and ARCON also collaborate on initiatives to enhance the membership drive and support architectural professionals throughout their careers. They provide avenues for continuous professional development, networking opportunities, and advocacy for the profession's interests at both local and international levels.

In addition to collaborating with the NIA, ARCON also partners with the Association of Nigerian Chartered Architects (ANCA) to support architecture in Nigeria. ANCA provides a platform for chartered architects to interact professionally and promotes ethical discipline among its members, aligning with ARCON's objectives of regulating the profession.

By working hand in hand, they uphold standards, support practitioners, and promote the profession's significance in the built environment sector.

Challenges and conflicts
ARCON, like many regulatory bodies in Nigeria, encounters various challenges that impede its effective functioning. Some major challenges include: Inadequate funding from the government, leading to delays in processing applications for architectural registration, corruption and lack of enforcement, which can lead to the approval of substandard buildings and unqualified architects, and lack of awareness.

These challenges have significant implications for ARCON's operations and its ability to regulate the architecture profession effectively.

Conflicts between ARCON and NIA
ARCON and the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) have been embroiled in various disputes over the years, affecting the architecture profession in Nigeria.

The two bodies clashed over the composition of the ARCON council, leading to litigation and the cancellation of council inaugurations in 2022, by the Ministry.

Litigation between ARCON and the NIA further exacerbated tensions between the two organisations. Legal disputes over matters such as nomination processes and the conduct of examinations resulted in prolonged conflicts and uncertainty within the profession.

The unresolved disputes have had negative consequences for architectural professionals in Nigeria. Many graduates have been unable to register or proceed with licensure programmes due to the disruptions caused by the conflicts between ARCON and the NIA.

However, recent attempts were made to address the enduring conflicts between ARCON and NIA. Following discussions between ARCON, the NIA and ANCA in 2022, agreements were reached to create a unified Professional Competency Evaluation Programme and establish a Memorandum of Understanding for Higher National Diploma Certificate holders within the architectural field.