In reflecting upon the life of my dear friend and colleague, Architect David Aradeon, I am struck by the breadth of his influence—a legacy that goes far beyond the magnificent structures he designed. David was not just an architect of buildings; he was a moulder of minds, a teacher of design whose wisdom shaped the thinking of countless generations of architects. His profound commitment to the art and science of architecture ensured that his impact would endure far beyond his lifetime, through the many students who were privileged to learn under his tutelage.
David had a gift for nurturing talent, for drawing out the potential in those who studied with him. He was a mentor, a guide, and an educator whose work in academia left an indelible mark on architectural education in Nigeria and beyond. To his students, he imparted not only technical skills but a deep understanding of the cultural significance of architecture, urging them to respect the heritage that shapes our built environment while also pushing the boundaries of modern design. Through his hands and his teachings, he shaped the future of Nigerian architecture, one student at a time.
David’s work represented something far deeper than the physical; it was an extension of our collective story as a people. He possessed the remarkable ability to draw from the deep well of Nigeria’s architectural heritage and infuse it with the boldness of contemporary design. His buildings were more than edifices—they were symbols of who we are, bearing the weight of history while stretching toward the future. Each line he drew, every project he undertook, spoke to the richness of our culture, while embracing the boundless possibilities of innovation.
One of the most remarkable chapters in his life’s work was his role in Festac ‘77, where the Nigerian government specially commissioned him to create an exhibition of traditional Nigerian architectural models. It was an extraordinary moment where David stood as a custodian of our architectural heritage, interpreting and preserving the essence of our ancestors’ craftsmanship while sharing it with the world. His exhibition didn’t just display architecture; it was a testament to the spirit of Nigeria itself, showcasing our ingenuity and cultural depth on the global stage.
My own journey with David was marked by mutual respect, collaboration, and shared vision. We cooperated on several designs—architectural feats that, though unrealised, remain imprinted in my heart. One was the design for the Onobrakpeya Art Centre, a project close to my own artistic soul. Another was the proposed gatehouse for the University of Lagos, Akoka—an entrance that would have symbolised the fusion of learning, tradition, and innovation. While these projects never fully materialised, they stand as monuments in our shared imagination—testaments to the creativity and brilliance that David poured into all his work.
David was also a man of immense humility, a quality that often belied his towering achievements. Together, we were honoured to receive the prestigious Nigerian National Order of Merit (NNOM) Award, an honour bestowed upon those who have given their lives in service to the advancement of their fields. To stand alongside David as a fellow recipient was one of the proudest moments of my career, knowing that his contribution to architecture would continue to inspire generations long after we are gone.
As we bid farewell to this extraordinary man, we must also remember the deep well of love and family that surrounded him. To his beloved wife, Susan, and their wonderful children, I extend my deepest sympathies. May God grant them the strength to endure this immense loss, and may they find comfort in the profound knowledge that David’s legacy will live on—not only in the structures he created but in the lives he touched, the ideas he birthed, and the future he envisioned.
David Aradeon was, and will always remain, an enduring figure in Nigeria’s cultural and architectural history. His creativity, wisdom, and passion will echo in our hearts forever. Rest in peace, my dear friend. Your spirit remains alive in the beauty you brought into this world, and your vision will forever be etched into the landscape of our nation.
— Bruce Onobrakpeya October 2, 2024
