Located on a 12.2-acre (5.05 hectare) site in the rapidly developing reclaimed Eko Atlantic district, the new U.S. Consulate General in Lagos will support important diplomatic and commercial relations between the United States and Nigeria and embody the mission of Overseas Buildings Operations (OBO) to provide safe, secure, functional, and resilient facilities ensuring a robust platform for U.S. diplomacy abroad. The new building will underscore OBO’s commitment to environmental leadership and demonstrate sustainable design, construction, and operations that represent the best of U.S. architecture, engineering, and building standards. Ennead Architects is the design architect with Pernix Federal, LLC as the construction contractor. Completion is anticipated in 2027. 

The design of the new Consulate General campus arranges the site to mirror the natural flows of the Niger River Delta with gently curving site geometry that encourages the movement of wind and water through the landscape. Large trees coupled with a diverse palette of plants create microclimates within a context of open, multi-layered gardens that frame the central ten-story Chancery and allow space for shaded walkways. The building’s geometric and patterned façade is inspired by the local craft traditions of the Nigerian people. A sculptural stair provides access to community spaces and a café above, with views to the adjacent canal and boat dock. The arrival pavilion’s staggered roofs and granite screen wall will encourage air movement, creating a comfortable and intimate experience for consular visitors. 

The site and building design incorporate a range of energy efficiency strategies to address extreme seasonal conditions and significantly reduce energy demand. The façade is self-shading and the building envelope will reduce solar heat gain while maintaining interior access to daylight and views. As part of the Eko Atlantic community, the new campus will have access to modern infrastructure including an expansive seawall that protects the development from rising sea levels and coastal erosion. The landscape design connects the site to its natural environment, promoting the absorption of stormwater and preventing surface runoff. The project is registered with Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) — ­­­­­­ a global green building certification program that recognizes best-in-class building strategies and practices — and has a minimum goal of Silver certification. 

The permanent art collection, curated by OBO’s Office of Art in Embassies, will include art in a variety of media, including painting, photography, textile, and sculpture by both U.S. and Nigerian artists. The collection will seek to create a dialogue of shared values between the people of the United States and Nigeria. Highlights will include site-specific commissions that reflect an understanding of the diversity and richness of U.S. and Nigerian cultural heritage.