Lagos: Lagos State has resolved to develop a plan for improving Lagos physical planning and urban development. The decision was made in a communiqué signed by Mr Oluwole Sotire, Permanent Secretary, Office of Physical Planning, Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development. It was made available to newsmen on Friday in Lagos.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the communiqué emanated from the recently-organised 2024 Lagos Physical Planning Summit. It reflected the views and recommendations of key stakeholders, industry experts, and government officials at the summit aimed to create a vision for a more sustainable, organised, and integrated Lagos. The communique expressed a collective vision for the future and highlighted innovative strategies and practical solutions to ensure Lagos remained a dynamic and well-planned metropolis through public/private partnerships.
The communiqué expressed transformative views and recommendations geared toward reshaping the state’s physical planning and u
rban landscape and ensuring sustainable growth. It emphasised the importance of integrating Lagos with neighbouring regions to promote sustainable growth and interconnectedness. It called for simplifying the planning permit process to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and encourage investment.
Additionally, the communique highlighted the need to review existing land tenure and environmental laws to facilitate better urban planning and development. It stressed the importance of capacity development for professionals in physical planning and urban development. It also advocated the use of modern technology to improve urban planning processes and promote smart growth.
Furthermore, the communiqué proposed the establishment of a high-powered implementation committee and a working group to oversee the implementation of the summit’s recommendations. It called for adequate funding and human resource support for physical planning activities in Lagos State. It also suggested the use of public/private partnerships, municipa
l bonds, and crowdfunding to address infrastructure gaps.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the recommendations outlined in the communiqué are intended to guide the state’s future urban development efforts and ensure the city’s continued growth and prosperity.