Someone recently told me to stay silent when states discuss the environment and climate change, saying I come from a state that has turned open parks and gardens into real estate.
While His Excellency is one of the best governors in the country and a leader I deeply respect, it is becoming increasingly important to pay attention to the concerns being raised regarding the environment and social development. The United Nations Agenda 2030 reminds us that “sustainable cities and communities are critical to ensuring a future where no one is left behind.”
I am deeply concerned about the extensive deforestation our city has experienced in recent years under this administration, without efforts to replant or restore green spaces. We’ve lost public places that once allowed for community gatherings and social interaction, yet there have been no upgrades to existing facilities, let alone the development of new ones.
The absence of street furniture and intentional urban design in our road rehabilitation projects highlights a gap in prioritizing public spaces as catalysts for social cohesion and development. As stated in Goal 11 of the UN Agenda 2030, “access to green and public spaces, in particular for women, children, older persons and persons with disabilities,” is essential for inclusive, safe, and resilient cities.
The environmental and social impacts of these changes cannot be overlooked. We have an opportunity—and a responsibility—to reverse this trend by investing in sustainable urban development that strengthens both our environment and our sense of community.
There is immense room for improvement.
Idris Animasaun
Architect and Social Change Advocate