Engineers, town planners urged to help govt fight insecurity
Ogun Commissioner Calls for Collaborative Efforts to Tackle Insecurity
Abeokuta, Nigeria — Ogun State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Tunji Odunlami, addressed the growing concerns of insecurity in Nigeria on Tuesday, urging professionals in the infrastructure sector to collaborate with the government in combating the issue.
Odunlami’s remarks came during the 12th Waheed Kadiri Lecture, hosted by the Ogun State chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners. The lecture, titled “Designing Safer Nigeria: Engineering, Planning, and the Fight Against Insecurity,” took place at Leme, the state capital.
The commissioner emphasized the relevance of the lecture’s theme in addressing pressing national issues. He noted that Governor Dapo Abiodun has been proactive in supporting security agencies with funding, equipment, and resources, including drones, to enhance public safety.
“We are planners and engineers, and we must incorporate safety and security into our designs to create a livable and peaceful environment for our people,” Odunlami stated.
He urged attendees to equip themselves with knowledge and practices that can enhance the security and safety of citizens.
In his lecture, Prof. Jeremiah Ojediran, Vice Chancellor of Bells University of Technology, Ota, described insecurity as a complex challenge necessitating a coordinated and integrated approach. He stressed that no single profession or agency can effectively address insecurity in isolation, underlining the importance of collaboration among engineers, planners, policymakers, and communities.
Ojediran explained that while law enforcement plays a crucial role, the foundations for security are established well before criminal activities occur. He pointed out that insecurity is linked to how spaces are designed and managed, stating, “Insecurity emerges from the way spaces are designed, maintained, and managed.” Poorly planned neighborhoods, inadequate lighting, abandoned buildings, and congested areas contribute to a breeding ground for crime.
He concluded that addressing insecurity in Nigeria requires more than just policing and military intervention; it needs to address the underlying issues related to urban planning and infrastructure design.
Waheed Kadiri, Rector of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, emphasized the importance of strategic planning and called on town planners and other professionals to actively participate in efforts to combat insecurity through their work. He encouraged all stakeholders to play a role in creating a safer environment for the nation.
