The Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners, Ogun State Chapter, Adefela Sogbesan, has called for a deeper collaboration between the institute and traditional institutions as well as academia to tackle the challenge of haphazard building and development, particularly as it relates to the fast-paced development of Ota and its environs in Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government.
Sogbesan, in a statement on Wednesday, made this appeal during his courtesy call on the Olota of Ota, Oba Abdulkabir Obalanlege.
According to him, traditional rulers are pivotal in resolving land-related conflicts, enabling community engagement, and advancing development goals.
The NITP Chairman said, “The traditional rulers’ support is indispensable towards sustainable development and planning.
“We recognise the traditional institution as a major stakeholder in shaping the physical and structural layout of our towns and we shall always count on your wise counsel and support.”
Speaking during the visit, Olota, who was represented by the Onikotun of Otun Ota, Oba Abdulakeem Odunaro, applauded the NITP for its roles in shaping Nigeria’s urban and rural spaces.
The royal father called for synergy between traditional institutions and professional bodies to ensure sustainable community development.
“From time immemorial, we have felt your impact. We recognise the critical work you do and we are committed to supporting your initiatives. Whatever assistance you need to enhance development in our local government, you can be assured of our full cooperation”, the monarch said.
He emphasised the need for proper planning to address issues around land use, housing, transportation, and environmental management, while urging that all planning efforts must also reflect cultural heritage
During the visit to Bells University, Sogbesan proposed deeper collaboration between academia and professional bodies to foster innovations in town planning, stressing the relevance of planning in tackling climate change, data-driven infrastructure design, and sustainable urban development.
“This is more than a ceremonial visit. This is the convergence of academia and professional practice. Planning is no longer about just maps and layouts. It intersects with climate change, data analysis, and social policy”, he stated.
The NITP Chairman called for joint research projects, student internships, curriculum enhancement, policy dialogues, and conferences.
Sogbesan also commended the university’s decision to grant free tuition to students studying Urban and Regional Planning, urging that more awareness be created in secondary schools for the new students to take advantage of this kind gesture.
Responding, Ojediran, who received the delegation, appreciated the visit, especially as it coincided with the university’s 20th anniversary, and pledged to give due consideration to the institute’s proposals.
Sogbesan also visited the Chairman of the local government, Lawal Adewale, calling for more support and cooperation with professional planners to build functional and livable communities.
“Ota has evolved into one of the most economically vibrant LGs, especially due to its proximity to Lagos. It is therefore crucial to plan its structural development”, he revealed.
Adewale, acknowledged the widespread complaints about poor land use in the area and expressed readiness to reform the Works and Housing Department, including onboarding a professional town planner.
“I’ve received many complaints about poor land use. The best way to maximise our land resources is through proper planning,” he said.