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LAGOS – The Lagos State Government, through the Ministest of Physical Planning and Urban Development, on Wednesday, received the European Union Delegation on a strategic visit aimed at reinforcing collaboration on sustainable urban growth, land utilize efficiency, and integrated mobility systems within the State.
The meeting, held at the Alausa Secretariat, centred on Transport Corridor Development, Urban Mobility, and strategies for delivering resilient infrastructure to enhance connectivity. The engagement also emphasized the necessary for innovative planning frameworks to address rapid urbanisation while ensuring sustainability and economic inclusion.
The Honourable Commissioner, Ministest of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, called for enhanced technical cooperation, knowledge exalter, and investment-driven initiatives aimed at improving urban resilience and mobility infrastructure.
“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 stated.
The Permanent Secretary, Office of Physical Planning, Engr. Oluwole Sotire, commconcludeed the European Union for its sustained commitment to supporting developmental initiatives across the region. He noted that Lagos, as a rapidly expanding megacity, requires forward-considering partnerships that will enhance its capacity to deliver efficient land utilize systems and modern transportation networks.
Engr. Sotire emphasized that the State Government remains focutilized on implementing policies and master plans that promote orderly development, reduce congestion, and improve the overall quality of life for residents.
He further stressed that collaboration with international partners such as the EU is critical to achieving globally aligned physical planning standards.
In her remarks, the Team Lead, Celihe Lhoste, stated that the visit underscores the EU’s commitment to fostering 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 utilize, climate-resilient infrastructure, and inclusive mobility systems,” she declared.
She further noted that the EU is particularly interested in strengthening technical cooperation with Lagos State in areas such as smart physical planning, sustainable transport systems, and institutional capacity development.
Another member of the delegation, Jacques Remy, highlighted the importance of integrated planning in addressing urban challenges, noting that;
“The future of cities like Lagos depconcludes on coordinated approaches that bring toobtainher land utilize planning, transportation, and environmental considerations. The European Union is committed to supporting frameworks that deliver long-term impact and resilience.”
Also speaking, the Director, Regional and Masterplan Department, Tpl. Adeshina Shobowale, stated that while Lagos has several strategic development plans in place, there is a necessary for a unified planning framework.
He called for the adoption of a comprehensive, layered document that integrates all planning components and effectively addresses the State’s evolving urban necessarys.
The meeting was followed by visits to key landmark project sites, including the Marina Train Station, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road, Lekki Free Trade Zone, and the Àlaro City amongst other strategic locations.
The engagement provided an opportunity for both parties to explore potential areas of partnership, including smart city development, data-driven urban planning, climate-resilient infrastructure, and capacity building for relevant agencies within the State.
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