LASPEMA ENGAGES STAKEHOLDERS TO TRANSFORM SABO-IKORODU OPEN SPACES

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The Lagos State Planning and Environmental Monitoring Authority (LASPEMA) has deepened its commitment to sustainable urban development through active stakeholder engagement in its ongoing transformation of incidental open spaces across the state.

As part of the project, LASPEMA is repurposing neglected or underutilised spaces into recreational parks, community gardens, and eco-friendly zones, ensuring that residents and stakeholders play pivotal roles in the process.

In achieving this, a stakeholders forum was held recently at the Secretariat Town Hall of Ikorodu North LCDS to deliberate on the transformation project of incidental open space at Sabo-Ikorodu by Ile Epo Oba. This initiative reflects the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s dedication to fostering collaboration and inclusivity in the drive for a more livable Lagos.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Abiodun Olumide emphasised the importance of collaboration in achieving the project’s objectives. He noted that involving local communities from the inception stage will be instrumental in ensuring that the transformed spaces reflect the needs and aspirations of residents.

He said, “In Lagos State, we are ready to change the face of our environment; for us to be able to achieve this, it is not the responsibility of only the government but a collective responsibility. One way this can be achieved is regular and continuous engagement with the people’’.

The Commissioner noted that stakeholder engagement is at the heart of this initiative, noting that sustainable urban development can only be achieved when the people who will use and benefit from these spaces are actively involved.

Dr. Oluyinka also hinted that LASPEMA would soon be changed to Lagos State Informal Space Management Authority (LASISMA) to reflect the mandate of the agency to transform incidental open spaces in the State.

He, therefore, appealed to the residents and stakeholders to help achieve the transformation of these incidental open spaces identified within the Ikorodu axis.

In his address, the General Manager of LASPEMA, Tpl. Daisi Osho stated that the incidental open spaces at Sabo-Ikorodu are currently constituting an environmental nuisance, with the spaces being a hideout for criminal elements to carry out their activities. Hence, the State Government is ready to transform the spaces into a more conducive environment for relaxation and business.

The General Manager stated that the transformation of these spaces is a testament to the government’s resolve to address urban challenges through innovative solutions. These projects, according to him, will not only enhance the city’s aesthetics but also provide residents with opportunities for relaxation, community engagement, and environmental sustainability.

“This project initiative forms part of the THEMES Plus agenda under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration which prioritises urban regeneration, environmental stewardship, and community well-being’’, he said.

Tpl. Daisi appealed to the residents to take ownership of the project and cooperate with the agency to ensure that the project is achieved within the stipulated time frame.

The Chairman Ikorodu North Local Council Development Area, Hon. Adeola Adebisi Banjo, in his address, stated that the project is of critical benefit to the local council as years of underutilisation of the spaces have led to environmental degradation.

He commended the State Government through LASPEMA for identifying the space, noting that the transformation of the space will lead to economic prosperity for the community as well as a livable environment. The Chairman expressed his cooperation and support, as well as that of the community, to the successful completion of the project.

The forum had in attendance Baales, community leaders, environmental experts, security agencies as well as occupiers of the spaces.