Ogunkiri Adubajo

Nigerian engineer who transformed West African infrastructure through low-cost building innovations

Ogunkiri Adubajo (1918-1969) revolutionized construction practices across West Africa through his development of affordable building techniques. Trained at the University of Ibadan, he pioneered the use of laterite soil bricks in the 1950s, creating a sustainable alternative to imported materials. His 1957 《Laterite Construction Manual》 became the standard textbook for African architects.

Adubajo's most impactful work began in 1962 when he developed the Adubajo Foundation System - a cost-effective method using locally sourced bamboo and concrete. This enabled the rapid construction of over 300 schools and clinics across Nigeria, Ghana, and Ivory Coast during the 1960s. His 1965 Lagos housing project provided 1,200 units at 40% below market costs, becoming a model for affordable housing.

Despite his technical contributions, Adubajo's greatest legacy lies in institutionalizing knowledge transfer. He established the West African Building Institute in 1967, training over 500 technicians. Modern engineers still reference his 1968 lecture series on sustainable construction. His story is preserved in the 2019 BBC documentary 《Building Africa》, though primary archives remain limited.