Ondo State’s Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Hon. Sunday Olajide, has reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to updating and implementing urban and regional planning laws to reflect modern town planning realities. The pledge was made while hosting the Executive Members of the state chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) at his office in Akure.
Hon. Olajide disclosed that the administration of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has initiated the development of a modern and comprehensive master plan for Akure, the state capital, as well as other major towns. The aim is to ensure orderly physical development and sustainable urban growth across the state.
The Commissioner also highlighted efforts to digitalize approvals for development permits, enhancing efficiency, facilitating public interaction, and fast-tracking the administration’s urban regeneration and renewal agenda. He assured NITP of continued collaboration in areas including capacity building, monitoring and enforcement, and safeguarding government lands reserved for future development projects.
Professor Ayo Olajuyigbe, chairman of the state chapter of NITP, represented by First Vice Chairman TPL Akin Ogundipe, urged the government to fund the production of a befitting master plan for Akure and adopt a holistic approach in monitoring and enforcement by engaging resident Town Planning Practitioners. He also suggested granting amnesty to house owners without building permits to regularize documentation, which could boost internal revenue.
Chief Oluwagbenga Akingbasote, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, emphasized the Ministry’s reliance on the Institute’s expertise for technical assistance, consultation on special projects, and urban development programs. He further called on the Institute to support the newly inaugurated Strategic Committee for European Union Deforestation-Free Regulation Compliance, aimed at aligning the state’s cocoa sector with emerging global standards.
While the initiatives signal strong commitment to modern urban development, challenges remain in ensuring timely funding, effective enforcement, and public compliance. Delays or weak implementation could undermine efforts to achieve sustainable growth, orderly development, and revenue generation. The success of digitalized permit processes and master plans will depend heavily on efficient coordination between the Ministry, town planners, and local communities.
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