President Muhammadu Buhari has said the many national iconic structures designed by former Permanent Secretary, Chief Fola Alade, would keep inspiring younger architects everywhere.
Buhari stated this in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, on Sunday.
He commiserated with the family of Chief Alade as well as the people and government of Ekiti State.
Recalling the contributions of the late doyen of Architecture to the field, President Buhari relished his memory for the creation of some iconic structures like the National Stadium, Lagos and the Nigerian Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies building in Kuru, Plateau State.
“President Muhammadu Buhari condoles with family and friends of Chief (Arc) Isaac Folayan Alade, 87, whose imprint on the nation’s iconic structures will continue to inspire younger architects from within and outside the country, leaving a legacy of brilliance and diligence.
“The President joins the Nigerian Institute of Architects, Royal Institute of British Architects and Architects’ Registration Council of the United Kingdom in mourning the first architect to become a Permanent Secretary in Nigeria, who also served as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman Governing Council of the Federal University of Port Harcourt.
“President Buhari commiserates with Government and people of Ekiti State over the loss, believing that Chief Alade’s contributions to development of the country in design, building and administration will always be remembered by posterity, particularly the historic structures like National Stadium Lagos, Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Federal Secretariat Lagos and Nigerian Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies building in Kuru, Plateau State.
“The President prays that Almighty God will grant his soul eternal rest, and comfort his family,” the statement reads.