The rapid development in Oyo State of Nigeria in the last 2 decades and continuous efforts of past and present administration in the state are gradually yielding positive results particularly in addressing urban growth and renewal.
There are many factors that necessitated this which includes provision of basic amenities such as good roads, urban renewal projects and improvement in the security architecture of the state.
Asides Llagos state which is the commercial nerves centre of Nigeria,the next destination for both local and foreign investors is Oyo State,the pacesetter state.This is evident in the rapid development going on in every nook and cranny of the state especially Ibadan the capital city of the state.
Today, Oyo State is among the most peaceful states in Nigeria to live in, with a moderate cost of living and a fast-expanding urban landscape. However, this rapid development has also given rise to urban sprawl, resulting in scattered and uncoordinated growth. This reality has necessitated greater attention to comprehensive planning and masterplan-driven development to ensure sustainable and inclusive urban growth.
However, as Oyo state is making rapid progress in physical development, A development expert Ambassador Ibrahim Sangodoyin has harped on the need for the government/ communities to adopt strict compliance to Masterplans.
He noted that planned communities are better positioned to attract investment, manage infrastructure efficiently, and improve overall quality of life.They also create opportunities for inclusive development, where residents benefit not only from increased property worth but also from safer, healthier, and more connected environments
Amb. Sangodoyin, who also serves as Chairman of Bryhim Holdings and Executive Director of Wh Consultant Ltd—a real estate and community development firm—emphasized that land remains one of the most valuable assets given to mankind. Beyond its economic value as a source of wealth, income, and revenue generation, land plays a pivotal role in driving national, state, and community development.
While Highlighting the pressing issue, Amb. Sangodoyin described urban sprawl as a major challenge crippling into suburban and nearby communities, resulting in scattered growth patterns adding that if left unchecked, the uncontrolled expansion will undermine infrastructure, weakens property value, and limits the potential for long-term community development.
“To address this, one of his core goals is to work directly with communities and government stakeholders to design and implement masterplans that will guide development, add tangible value to properties, improve livability, and foster orderly, inclusive, and sustainable urban environments”
“This mission is more than maps and layouts; it is about people and prosperity. A well-planned community provides better access to infrastructure, reduces environmental risks, enhances social inclusion, and makes property ownership more rewarding,” Sangodoyin said
Sangodoyin reiterated the urgent need to embrace sustainable city and community planning to address the challenge of rapid urban sprawl.
Amb. Sangodoyin also revealed that his firm have already launched projects within the city of Ibadan and are looking forward to deeper collaborations with government bodies, institutions, and community stakeholders to drive sustainable growth.
Amb. Sangodoyin Ibrahim Damilare, is a Geoinformatics and Surveying graduate of the University of Nigeria Nsukka, an Associate Member of the Nigerian Institution of Surveyors (NIS), Oyo State Branch,