Dare Babalola
The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, on Wednesday hosted a delegation from the European Union in a strategic engagement aimed at strengthening cooperation on sustainable urban development, land use efficiency, and integrated transportation systems.
The meeting, held at the Alausa Secretariat, focused on transport corridor development, urban mobility, and the delivery of resilient infrastructure designed to enhance connectivity across Lagos State.
The development was contained in a statement signed by Mrs. Titilayo Oshodi-Eko, Director of Public Affairs.
Discussions also centred on the need for innovative planning frameworks to manage rapid urbanisation while ensuring sustainability, inclusiveness, and economic growth.
The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, called for enhanced technical cooperation, knowledge exchange, and investment-driven partnerships to support the State’s urban transformation agenda.
“You will agree with me that Lagos is a key economic hub in West Africa, and we are confident in our strategic direction towards sustainable physical planning transformation,” he said.
He noted that such collaborations remain essential to addressing the infrastructural demands of a rapidly expanding megacity like Lagos.
The Permanent Secretary, Office of Physical Planning, Engr. Oluwole Sotire, expressed appreciation to the European Union for its continued support for development initiatives across the region.
He observed that Lagos requires forward-looking partnerships capable of strengthening land use systems and modernising transport infrastructure.
Engr. Sotire reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing policies and master plans aimed at ensuring orderly development, reducing congestion, and improving the quality of life of residents.
He stressed that international partnerships remain critical to achieving globally aligned standards in physical planning and urban development.
On her part, the Team Lead of the EU Delegation, Celihe Lhoste, reaffirmed the European Union’s commitment to supporting sustainable cities through strategic partnerships.
“Lagos represents a dynamic model of urban growth in Africa. Our engagement today reflects the European Union’s readiness to support initiatives that promote efficient land use, climate-resilient infrastructure, and inclusive mobility systems,” she said.
She added that the EU is particularly interested in strengthening cooperation in smart urban planning, sustainable transport systems, and institutional capacity development within relevant government agencies.
Another member of the delegation, Jacques Remy, emphasised the importance of coordinated urban planning in addressing the challenges associated with rapid urbanisation.
“The future of cities like Lagos depends on coordinated approaches that bring together land use planning, transportation, and environmental considerations. The European Union is committed to supporting frameworks that deliver long-term impact and resilience,” he stated.
Also speaking, the Director of the Regional and Masterplan Department, Tpl. Adeshina Shobowale, noted that while Lagos has existing strategic development plans, there is a need for a more unified planning framework.
He called for the adoption of a comprehensive, layered planning document that integrates all components of urban development and effectively responds to the State’s evolving needs.
Following the discussions, the EU delegation embarked on site visits to key infrastructure and development projects across Lagos, including the Marina Train Station, the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Road corridor, the Lekki Free Trade Zone, and Alaro City, among other strategic locations.
The visits provided both parties with the opportunity to explore potential areas of partnership, including smart city development, data-driven urban planning, climate-resilient infrastructure, and capacity building for relevant agencies in the State.
Other officials present at the engagement included Tpl. Kikelomo Asogbon, Director of Town Planning; Tpl. Hakeem Animashaun, Director of Development Matters; and Mrs. Titilayo Oshodi-Eko, Director of Public Affairs, among others.
The engagement is expected to further strengthen international cooperation aimed at building inclusive, efficient, and future-ready cities, with Lagos State positioning itself as a leading hub for physical planning innovation in Africa.
