The Lagos State Government has underscored the need for innovative approaches and inter-agency collaboration to drive people-focused urban development in the state.
The call was made by Dr. Olajide Babatunde, Special Adviser to the Governor on e-GIS and Urban Development, during the management retreat of the Office of Urban Development, themed: “Transforming Urban Spaces: Putting People First”, held at the Protea Hotel, Ikeja.
Dr. Babatunde explained that the retreat aimed to align team efforts with Lagos State’s urban development vision, strengthen capacities for holistic citizen-oriented planning, and foster collaboration to generate innovative solutions for managing the city’s dynamic urban spaces.
He urged officials of the Office of Urban Development, including officers from the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) and the Lagos State Urban Renewal Agency (LASURA), to embrace change, adopt innovative approaches, and leverage geospatial intelligence and digital tools for a functional and sustainable Lagos urban environment.
“To mark a strategic milestone in our pursuit of people-centric urban development in Lagos, we must act as one indivisible unit, think outside the box, act differently, and embrace technology and people-centric approaches,” he said.
The Permanent Secretary, Office of Urban Development, Arc. Gbolahan Owodunni Oki, reaffirmed the office’s commitment to prioritising citizens’ needs, stating:
"Our mandate is clear: to ensure urban spaces that foster inclusivity, safety, and prosperity while putting people at the heart of Lagos' urban transformation."
The retreat featured distinguished speakers, including Dr. Muiz Banire, former Commissioner for the Environment, who discussed citizen-focused urban development; Mr. Bode Pedro, CEO of Casava Insurance, on the importance of enforcing building insurance; and Mr. AbdulKabir Ogungbo, Special Adviser to the Governor on Taxation and Revenue, on the Office’s role in revenue generation.
Further presentations included Dr. Kamal Azar, Chairman of GIS Transport, on the application of GIS technology in land administration; Victor Akinpelumi, Managing Director of Lagosnet, on digital planning; and contributions from Hon. Sylvester Ogunkelu, Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Physical Planning, e-GIS, and Urban Development, as well as Hon. Adewale Adedeji, Hon. Jubril Abdukareem, Tpl. Oladimeji Animashaun, General Manager of LASURA, and Builder Florence Gbaye, Coordinating Director of LASBCA.
Held approximately two years into the establishment of the Office of Urban Development, the retreat provided a platform for critical reflections, strategic engagements, and team bonding, aimed at enhancing productivity, cohesion, and alignment with the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda of the Lagos State Government.
Consultant Ms. Toyin Adewunmi guided focus sessions on wellness and productivity, emotional intelligence, leadership skills, and intra-office collaboration, ensuring participants are equipped to deliver more efficient, people-centered urban governance.
📩 Reported by: Stone Reporters News
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