In Ogun State, effective physical planning and urban development are increasingly recognized as contingent upon collaboration among ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs). At the 2024 Annual General Meeting of the Ogun State Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) held in Abeokuta, Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Olatunji Odunlami, underscored the critical nature of inter-agency cooperation in formulating and executing development plans. He articulated that such synergistic partnerships are not merely beneficial but essential for ecological and societal advancements, given their potential to foster an environment conducive to sharing innovative ideas and achieving collective goals.
Odunlami pointed out that joint efforts among agencies could mitigate common urban issues, including land grabbing, poor drainage positioning, and unauthorized construction activities. He acknowledged the detrimental impact of working in isolation, as it hampers the effectiveness of land administration within the state. The current administration, led by Governor Dapo Abiodun, has mandated a more integrated approach, compelling all land-related MDAs to collaborate, while also encouraging non-land-related agencies—such as those in health and education—to engage in compliance with established regulations. This emphasis on collaboration speaks to a broader vision of a cohesive governance structure where all sectors work in concert to address urban planning challenges.
The National President of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners, Nathaniel Atebije, echoed the call for adaptive change in response to rapid technological advancements impacting the planning profession. He urged members to embrace innovative strategies that would facilitate smoother communication and collaboration among various MDAs. To this end, he revealed plans for a Ten-Year Strategic Development Plan aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of town planners on a national level. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the need for planners to remain at the forefront of technological evolution while ensuring that strategic frameworks are established to aid in the efficient flow of ideas and resources among agencies.
In conversations with the press, the Commissioner for Housing, Jagunmolu Jamiu Omoniyi, reinforced the importance of synchronizing efforts across government sectors to enhance overall development within Ogun State. He acknowledged the complications arising from developmental plans initiated by previous administrations that failed to promote cooperative strategies among agencies. Omoniyi stressed the necessity for a systematic approach to urban development, lamenting instances where private developers initiated extensive projects without clear communication with regulatory bodies. This lack of coordination can exacerbate issues within the building and planning sectors, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive dialogue among all stakeholders involved in urban development.
Adefela Sogbesan, Chairman of the NITP Ogun State Chapter, added depth to the discussion by emphasizing the need for expert consultations before undertaking construction projects. He expressed concerns over the trend of individuals proceeding with developments without professional guidance, which can lead to violations of zoning regulations and result in significant environmental hazards. Sogbesan urged residents to engage qualified professionals in the planning process to prevent haphazard development that could undermine sustainable growth. He reiterated the importance of collaboration among agencies to strengthen the built environment and ensure that urban developments align with regulatory frameworks.
The session’s theme, “Cross-Sector Collaboration in the Production and Implementation of Development Plans: Imperative of Synergy Among MDAs,” highlights a crucial shift in the mindset of urban planners and government officials alike, recognizing that collaboration is vital for sustainable development. By advocating for interdepartmental partnerships and professional consultations, the Ogun State government aims to create a more cohesive landscape for urban development. Such initiatives not only foster a sharing of resources and expertise among various agencies but also serve to inform the public about the importance of professional involvement in urban planning, ultimately leading to more responsible and sustainable urban growth in the region. Through these collaborative measures, Ogun State aspires to set a benchmark for effective governance and urban development in Nigeria.
