A town planning expert, Tpl. Arc. Prof. Leke Oduwaye, has called for greater public enlightenment and stakeholder collaboration in town planning to bridge the gap between theory and practice in Nigeria’s urban development.

Prof. Oduwaye made the call while delivering a lecture at the 2025 Annual General Meeting of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP), Ogun State Chapter, held at the Institute’s Secretariat in Ijeun Lukosi, Abeokuta.

Speaking on the theme “Conflicting Rationality: The Challenge of Urban and Physical Development in Nigeria,” the don blamed corruption and overlapping institutional roles for most challenges facing urban growth. He urged government to adopt community-sensitive and sustainable planning strategies instead of the current top-down approach.

He also advised that approval processes for building and physical development be streamlined, noting that multiple clearances from various agencies delay projects and encourage inefficiency.

In his remarks, Ogun NITP Chairman, Tpl. Adefela Sogbesan, said the state government is reviewing its urban law with input from the Institute. He stressed the need for public enlightenment and urged residents to consult town planners before any development to prevent illegal structures and demolitions.

Chairman of the event and Managing Director of Adron Homes and Properties, Aare Emmanuel Adetola, represented by Tpl. Rotimi Babajide, called for synergy among government, professionals, and citizens to promote sustainable and inclusive urban development.

Highlights of the event included the presentation of awards to Prof. Oduwaye and Aare Adetola for their contributions to the field.