The council collaborates with stakeholders, such as educational institutions and government bodies, and also faces various operational challenges, including funding constraints and enforcement issues.

[citation needed][4] While traditional architectural practices varied across the country, the modern profession lacked uniform standards, leading to inconsistencies in competency and professionalism.

However, there was still a growing need for a regulatory framework,[6] as the absence of defined standards for architectural education and professional qualifications allowed unqualified individuals to practice.

In 1996, the founding decree was reviewed, leading to the creation of the Architects Registration Board of Nigeria (ARBON) to oversee qualifying examinations.

In 2007, as part of its regulatory efforts, ARCON made a strategic plan to enhance the profession,[9] ensuring that architects in Nigeria adhere to global best practices while safeguarding the interests of the public.

[13] The Act describes ARCON's responsibilities and functions, and grants it the authority to regulate, oversee, and enforce standards within the architectural profession in Nigeria.

[14] Through these provisions, ARCON ensures that only licensed individuals engage in the practice of architecture, to secure public interest and maintain professional integrity.

[citation needed] Section 2 of the Act describes ARCON's mandate and outlines the council's powers to review and update its standards periodically, ensuring adaptability to advancements in both the practice and in technology.

[16][citation needed] It empowers ARCON to investigate cases of professional incompetence or unethical behavior, with sanctions ranging from fines to the withdrawal of licensure.

This regulatory scope aligns with international best practices seen in bodies like the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) in the United States, which also mandates adherence to strict ethical codes, and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) in the United Kingdom, which emphasizes education and professional practice.

[17] However, unlike RIBA, ARCON has legal authority embedded in national legislation, granting it enforcement powers beyond advocacy and education.

The Minister of Housing and Urban Development oversees the appointment process and retains authority to adjust council membership to address evolving needs and circumstances.

[citation needed] The council contributes to the development of policies and regulations related to architecture and the built environment in Nigeria.

Additionally, candidates must possess a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Certificate and complete a minimum of two years of practical training, known as pupillage, under the supervision of a registered Architect.

The registration process involves submitting application forms, documentary evidence of compliance with regulations, and endorsements from sponsors.

Together, the NIA and ARCON work closely to conduct periodic accreditation exercises at schools offering architecture programmes across the country.

Through these exercises, they ensure that architectural education meets the required standards and prepares students adequately for professional practice.

They provide avenues for continuous professional development, networking opportunities, and advocacy for the profession's interests at both local and international levels.

[32] In addition to collaborating with the NIA, ARCON also partners with the Association of Nigerian Chartered Architects (ANCA) to support architecture in Nigeria.

ANCA provides a platform for chartered architects to interact professionally and promotes ethical discipline among its members, aligning with ARCON's objectives of regulating the profession.

ARCON and the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) have been embroiled in various disputes over the years, affecting the architecture profession in Nigeria.

Legal disputes over matters such as nomination processes and the conduct of examinations resulted in prolonged conflicts and uncertainty within the profession.

Following discussions between ARCON, the NIA and ANCA in 2022, agreements were reached to create a unified Professional Competency Evaluation Programme and establish a Memorandum of Understanding for Higher National Diploma Certificate holders within the architectural field.