The founding of the association arose from the need to have a body established solely for promoting and protecting the interests of consulting architects in Nigeria, and to create a platform for improving the quality of service.

The principals of 12 firms came together to actualize this thought, and the Association of Consulting Architects Nigeria (ACAN) was birthed in April 2004. The founding members include:

ACAN has recorded a number of milestones and landmark events since its founding, some of which include

• Engaging erring foreign firms on the issue of inappropriate (or non-) collaboration with local firms on projects executed within Nigeria as required by law.
• Addressing the proper engagement and remuneration of consulting architects and making the fee schedule relevant and up to date.
• Promoting a radio program “Ask The Architect”, which educates the general public on architecture and the proper engagement of architects and their roles and duties.
• Publishing the book – Architecture in Nigeria which showcases the works of member firms.
• ACAN is poised to continue in its quest in advancing architecture by ensuring that a minimum standard of experience and competence adequate for the practice of architecture is met at all times.