UNILORIN VC Urges Professionals to Take Active Role in Nation Building, Warns Against Reliance Solely on Politicians

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Professor Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, has emphasized the crucial role of professionals in shaping Nigeria's future, cautioning against leaving the country solely in the hands of politicians.

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Professor Egbewole made these remarks while delivering a lecture titled "Town Planners, Sustainable Development and Nation Building" at the 10th Waheed Kadiri Lecture Series organized by the Ogun State Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP).

Highlighting the importance of the annual lecture series honoring former NITP President Waheed Kadiri, Professor Egbewole stressed that professionals across various sectors must actively contribute to nation-building efforts.

He expressed concerns about the consequences of allowing politicians to have exclusive control over Nigeria's development agenda, stating, "To a large extent, our decision-makers are planning illiterate." 

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The Vice Chancellor underscored the imperative for professionals to play a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria's development trajectory, urging them to prioritize the nation's interests over political considerations.

Addressing town planners specifically, Professor Egbewole urged them to advocate for vibrant and sustainable communities. He emphasized the need for town planning initiatives to promote a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational land uses, thereby fostering a sense of community and reducing commuting distances.

Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of people-centric planning, advocating for the adoption of planning processes that empower communities to address their needs effectively. Professor Egbewole also stressed the necessity of prioritizing the development of efficient infrastructure and essential services to ensure equitable access for all citizens.

In closing, Professor Egbewole called for the strict implementation of government policies and plans related to urban regeneration to mitigate the risk of natural disasters.

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His remarks underscored the vital role of professionals in driving sustainable development and emphasized the need for collaborative efforts between the government and various stakeholders to achieve national goals.