The Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP), Ogun State Chapter, has inaugurated its newly elected executives who will steer the affairs of the institute for the next two years.

The 19th investiture of the Chairman and the inauguration of the executives committee took place at the Providence Event Centre, Abiola Way, Abeokuta.

In his inaugural address, the Chairman of the institute, Tpl. Olusola Odukoya, said the role of town planners has never been more critical, as cities and towns continue to grapple with challenges such as rapid urbanisation, infrastructure deficits, climate change, environmental degradation, and insecurity.

He outlined key agenda items for the new administration, including professional development, strengthening institutional visibility and advocacy, promoting ethical practice and professional unity, improving infrastructure and the institute’s secretariat, as well as fostering partnerships and community impact assessments.

Tpl. Odukoya called for the guidance, cooperation and active participation of all members and stakeholders to reposition the profession and ensure town planners take their rightful place at the forefront of urban and regional development. He commended Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, for what he described as proactive and innovative town planning laws and developmental initiatives in the state.

In his goodwill message, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Tpl. Olatunji Odunlami, represented by the Senior  Special Assistant to the Governor on Town Planning, Tpl. Kamorudeen Ogunfowora, acknowledged the critical role of the NITP in upholding planning standards and supporting government initiatives on effective land use management and urban renewal.

Delivering a lecture at the event, the Dean of the Faculty of Environmental Studies, Polytechnic of Ibadan, Dr. Kola Lawal, said urban insecurity remains a major global challenge, with heightened impact in Nigeria’s rapidly expanding cities. He explained that smart urbanism offers viable pathways to mitigating security threats through the integration of technology, strategic planning and policy reforms, bridging the gap between urban planning and security.

Speaking on the theme of the event, “Smart Urbanism for Safer Communities,” the National President of the institute, Dr. Chime Ogbonna, represented by the Second Vice National Secretary, Prof. Oluwole Daramola, charged members to lead with integrity, inclusiveness, professionalism and a clear sense of purpose.

Earlier in her address, the Chairperson of the Investiture Committee, Tpl. Oluyinka Akinlade, described the ceremony as a significant milestone for the institute, noting that it formally inducts newly elected executives into positions of leadership and service. She added that leadership within the institute is demonstrated through professional excellence and unwavering commitment.