Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara has unveiled the new Ilorin city masterplan to facilitate urban development and secure a sustainable future for the people of the state.
Represented by his Deputy, Mr Kayode Alabi, the governor unveiled the masterplan on Wednesday during the Public Presentation of the Draft Masterplan and Consultation held at the Banquet Hall, Ilorin.
AbdulRazaq described the masterplan as another milestone in the history of Ilorin, adding that the city is getting a masterplan for the second time since the creation of Kwara in 1967.
According to him, the first masterplan had been designed in 1976 and it is meant to lapse at the close of the 20th century.
“We are glad to be offering the state its second-ever masterplan. This speaks to our genuine concern for planned growth and the future of our children.“
It is a testament to the great vision and commitment we have for this state. I want to state that designing masterplans for other major cities is also a top priority as we build a sustainable future for Kwara State.
“We started this project some months ago in 2020, and it has taken the efforts of many professionals and patriots to get us this far. I am truly grateful to all of you,” he said.
The governor added that the role of a masterplan in sustainable development cannot be overemphasised, adding that it dictates the pattern of physical development in any society with serious consequences for sustainable living.
AbdulRazaq, who described Ilorin as one of the fastest growing city in Nigeria, assured that the city would continue to record huge growth into the future.
“The masterplan provides A-grade professional insights into how the city will be organised in the areas of transportation/utilities, waste management, water/drainage system, education, health, climate change, management and green areas.“
Job opportunities, agriculture and future expansion of the city, among others,” he said.
The governor added that the masterplan has enjoyed inputs from various stakeholders and experts from across the state and beyond.
He said that the presentation offered another opportunity for everyone to have the final say on how to organise Ilorin and make it the best planned and the most resilient city in the country.
The Chairman, Ilorin Masterplan Working Committee, Mr Abdulmutalib Shittu, disclosed that the masterplan consider planned growth and development for 20 years.
Shittu said the masterplan provide a 20-year vision for the future of Ilorin, which will strengthening employment opportunities and the provision of public services for an increasing population.
“We want to make Ilorin city the best economic wise. We can achieve it together as a team. No room for error.“
The Ilorin city masterplan is target towards 2042. It is a comprehensive sustainable and implementable framework for urban development,” he said.
He disclosed that the exhibition would be opened for 28 days from May 11 to June 8 for public engagement and input at the Ilorin Banquet Hall.
Shittu commended the 9-man Ilorin city masterplan working committee and Dar-Al-Handasah consultant for their relentless efforts towards the successful presentation and vision for Ilorin development.
The chairman also commended AbdulRazaq for his vision for Kwara and efforts to transform Ilorin to a world class city.
“We are proud of our governor. Kwara is blessed with a visionary leader. He is the best planner we ever dreamt of in our darling state of harmony,” he said. (NAN)
