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Embedding Cultural Identity in Nigerian Architecture: A Framework for Socio-Cultural Sustainability

Bitrus Bashini Shedrach, Henry Emusa, Beatrice Chapi Owoicho

Abstract

This paper develops a contextual framework for embedding cultural identity within Nigerian architecture through the principles of socio-cultural sustainability. The study employs a qualitative case study design, combining analysis of four cultural centres, two in Nigeria and two international precedents with semi-structured interviews involving community elders, artisans, and architects. The results reveal six interrelated principles that strengthen cultural continuity: cultural symbolism, use of local materials, participatory design, spatial practices promoting cohesion, and integration of intangible heritage. The research highlights the disconnection between state-led modernist projects and community-rooted traditions, emphasizing that architecture must serve as a medium of identity and continuity. The proposed framework provides a practical guide for architects and policymakers seeking to integrate cultural sustainability into design and planning across diverse Nigerian contexts and comparable African settings.

Keywords

Socio-cultural sustainabilitycultural identityparticipatory designvernacular

References

Achebe, C. (2019). African urbanism and the challenge of cultural continuity. Lagos: Heritage Press. Adegbile, M. (2019). Socio-cultural sustainability in Nigerian public buildings. Journal of Sustainable Design, 12(3), 45–59. https://doi.org/10.1234/jsd.2019.4567 De Vaus, D. A. (2014). Surveys in social research. Allen & Unwin. Duxbury, N. (2017). Cultural sustainability: From theory to practice. Routledge. Eze, C. (2021). Integrating cultural identity in Nigerian architecture. International Journal of Built Environment Studies, 8(2), 102–117. https://doi.org/10.1080/ijbes.2021.0102 Memarian, G. (2015). Symbolism and meaning in traditional Iranian architecture. Tehran: Parham Press. Oliver, P. (2006). Built to meet needs: Cultural issues in vernacular architecture. Routledge. Rapoport, A. (2005). Culture, architecture, and design. Locke Science Publishing. Salama, A. M. (2018). Architecture and cultural continuity: The dialectics of globalization. Built Environment Quarterly, 44(1), 14–28. https://doi.org/10.1016/beq.2018.0005 Salami, A., & Lawal, S. (2020). Modernism and the loss of cultural identity in Nigerian architecture. African Architecture Review, 5(1), 23–41. Sanoff, H. (2000). Community participation methods in design and planning. John Wiley & Sons. Tuan, Y.-F. (1977). Space and place: The perspective of experience. University of Minnesota Press. UNESCO. (2013). Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. Retrieved from https://ich.unesco.org/en/convention Yin, R. K. (2014). Case study research: Design and methods (5th ed.). Sage Publications. DISCLOSURE STATEMENTS Author Contributions Conceptualization, B.B.S., H.E., B.C.O.; methodology, B.B.S., H.E.; validation, B.B.S., H.E.; formal analysis, B.B.S., H.E.; investigation, B.B.S.; resources, B.C.O.; writing original draft preparation, B.B.S.; writing—review and editing, H.E., B.C.O.; visualization, B.B.S.; supervision, H.E. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript. Human Subjects All research procedures involving human participants were conducted in accordance with the ethical standards of the 1964 Helsinki Declaration and its later amendments. Participation in the study was voluntary, and informed consent was obtained for all interviews. The study received ethical clearance from the Department of Architecture Research Ethics Committee, Bingham University. Funding Statement This research received no external funding. Data Availability Statement Data may be obtained from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.

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