By Dennis Okechukwu
Nnezi Uduma-Olugu has made history at the University of Lagos after being elevated to the rank of professor, becoming the first female to attain that position in the institution’s Faculty of Architecture.
Her promotion marks a significant milestone for gender representation in the built environment discipline. In addition to this achievement, she has also been appointed the pioneer Head of the newly created Department of Landscape Architecture and Urban Design.
Reflecting on her journey, Uduma-Olugu described it as challenging but rewarding. She recalled sitting for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination three times before gaining admission to study architecture, eventually graduating with a First Class degree. She also recounted narrowly missing out on an international scholarship opportunity before ultimately earning a gold medal for academic excellence.
Her academic journey continued with a demanding seven-year PhD programme and a prolonged wait before attaining professorship. Despite these hurdles, she expressed deep gratitude and fulfillment, attributing her success to perseverance and faith.
Beyond her personal achievements, Uduma-Olugu has played a pivotal role in advancing architectural education in Africa. She was instrumental in establishing the Master of Landscape Architecture programme at UNILAG—the first of its kind in sub-Saharan Africa. She is also the founder of Gardens By Designedscapes Ltd and a Fellow of both the Nigerian Institute of Architects and the Society of Landscape Architecture of Nigeria.
Speaking on gender challenges in the profession, she credited her upbringing and training for shaping her resilience, noting that she was raised to see being female as an advantage rather than a limitation.
Now a leading voice in sustainable urban design, her work continues to influence approaches to urban development in Lagos, often referred to as the “City of Excellence.” Her career, she says, is driven by a desire to inspire the next generation of architects.
Her elevation is being celebrated as a landmark achievement within the university and a testament to determination, innovation, and leadership in Nigerian academia.