By: Tijani Salako.

The Lagos State Government has strengthened its collaboration with the European Union to advance integrated physical planning and modern transport systems aimed at supporting sustainable urban growth.

This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development through its Director of Public Affairs, Titilayo Oshodi-Eko.

The development formed the focus of a strategic meeting held on Wednesday at the Alausa Secretariat, where officials from the state ministry hosted a delegation from the EU.

Discussions at the meeting centred on transport corridor development, urban mobility, and strategies to deliver resilient infrastructure capable of improving connectivity across the state. Both parties also highlighted the importance of innovative planning frameworks to address rapid urbanisation while promoting sustainability and economic inclusion.

The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Oluyinka Olumide, called for stronger technical cooperation, knowledge exchange, and investment-driven initiatives to boost urban resilience and mobility infrastructure.

He noted that Lagos remains a major economic hub in West Africa, expressing confidence in the state’s ongoing efforts to achieve sustainable physical planning transformation.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Office of Physical Planning, Oluwole Sotire, commended the EU for its continued support for development initiatives in the region. He said Lagos, as a rapidly growing megacity, requires forward-looking partnerships to enhance efficient land use systems and modern transportation networks.

Sotire added that the state government is committed to implementing policies and master plans that promote orderly development, reduce congestion, and improve residents’ quality of life, stressing that international collaboration is vital to achieving globally aligned planning standards.

On her part, EU Team Lead, Celihe Lhoste, said the visit reflects the union’s commitment to fostering sustainable cities through strategic partnerships.

She described Lagos as a dynamic model of urban growth in Africa, noting that the EU is ready to support initiatives focused on efficient land use, climate-resilient infrastructure, and inclusive mobility systems.

Another member of the delegation, Jacques Remy, emphasised the need for integrated planning approaches that combine land use, transportation, and environmental considerations to address urban challenges effectively.

He said the EU remains committed to supporting frameworks that deliver long-term impact and resilience.

In his remarks, the Director of Regional and Masterplan Department, Adeshina Shobowale, noted that although Lagos has several strategic development plans, there is a need for a unified planning framework to better respond to evolving urban demands.

He advocated the development of a comprehensive planning document that integrates multiple components into a cohesive structure.

The meeting was followed by visits to key infrastructure sites, including the Marina Train Station, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road, the Lekki Free Trade Zone, and Alaro City, among others.
Officials said the engagement provided an avenue to explore further partnerships in smart city development, data-driven urban planning, climate-resilient infrastructure, and institutional capacity building.

Other government officials present included directors and senior officers from the ministry and related agencies.

The meeting marks another step in strengthening international cooperation towards building inclusive, efficient, and future-ready cities, with Lagos positioning itself as a leader in physical planning innovation in Africa.