Idris animasaun

Policing the Future: “Sustainable and Inclusive Designs for Safer Communities”

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A few days ago, I came across an encouraging update: the honorable member representing my constituency has commenced the construction of a new police post. This development is not only commendable, but it also affirms the findings from my 2022 urban renewal proposal for the Kudeti area. Growing up in this neighborhood, we witnessed repeated waves of insecurity, especially attacks linked to the notorious “One Million Boys” and other gangs. It wasn’t until the death of Biola Ebila in July 2020, during a violent confrontation with a rival group, that relative calm returned to the area. But the scars of insecurity remain. When I began my urban renewal project, data revealed a striking reality: the stretch from Molete through Yejide, Community Grammar School, Ilupeju, Kudeti, with spurs reaching Agbongbon, Idi-Arere, and down to Bode, is home to over 1,000 families. Yet, these neighborhoods are currently expected to rely solely on the Idi-Aro and Sanyo police divisions for security coverage. The construction of this new police post is, therefore, not just timely, it is a critical enhancement to the area’s security architecture. However, this move also brings to the fore previous failed attempts. For instance, the Adeyemo/Osungbade community once initiated a police post project that remains incomplete despite interventions, including cash donations by Hon. Dapo Lam Adesina. But beyond the need to increase the number of police posts under existing divisions, there’s a pressing call to rethink their design and functionality. It’s time we moved away from the intimidating, closed-off structures of the past and toward user-friendly facilities that foster positive relationships between officers and the communities they serve. Although the design of the newly proposed police post has yet to be made public, I strongly hope it considers key improvements. There must be provisions for shaded, covered waiting areas for civilians, which are often neglected. This lack of comfort not only discourages public engagement but can also become grounds for harassment. Moreover, overreliance on artificial ventilation and lighting compromises sustainability. My design proposals in 2022 focused on addressing these very issues by incorporating passive design strategies that enhance comfort while minimizing energy use. While every design can evolve, we must start ensuring that these public facilities are not only functional but also sustainable and community-friendly, from their form and façade to the spaces within. Idris Animasaun Architect and Social Change Advocate

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Oyo State’s Energy Strides: Celebrating Achievements and Addressing Regulatory Gaps.

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The recent National Economic Summit, hosted by the Jericho Businessmen Club, provided valuable insights into the achievements of the Oyo State Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources under the leadership of Barr. Nurudeen Ashamu Seun Temilolu. Those in attendance recounted how he highlighted the administration’s impact and the strides made in the energy sector. One key takeaway was his candid acknowledgment of the skepticism surrounding his legal background and the challenges faced, particularly in sustaining the Light Up Oyo project. However, it is undeniable that he has surpassed expectations by implementing bold reforms, expanding rural electrification, and fostering public-private partnerships. Unfortunately, these achievements remain underreported, perhaps due to inadequate media coverage or the ministry’s preference for a low-profile approach. His legal expertise has been a significant asset in ensuring energy reforms, in terms of regulatory compliance, contract negotiations, and structured policy formulation. His hands-on leadership, innovative mindset, and commitment to sustainable energy solutions have positioned Oyo State as a model for sub-national energy initiatives. Moving forward, an urgent priority should be the immediate establishment of the Oyo State Electricity Regulatory Commission (OSERC), which was signed into law alongside the State Electricity Bill in 2024. According to the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), the OSERC should already be operational, per the order of transfer. The commission is crucial for setting up a state-regulated electricity framework that will attract private investors, particularly power generation companies (GENCOs). It will also complement ongoing efforts, including the newly commissioned Independent Power Projects (IPPs) and other critical energy initiatives across the state. Ensuring OSERC’s functionality will solidify the state’s progress and unlock further opportunities for energy sector growth. Idris AnimasaunArchitect and Social Change Advocate

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“Breaking the Barrier: The HND/BSc Dichotomy and Its Impact on Human Capital Development in Nigeria”

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The HND/BSc dichotomy has long been a source of frustration and inequality in Nigeria’s education and employment sectors. While both qualifications require rigorous academic work and practical training, HND holders face systemic discrimination, particularly in government jobs and private sector placements. Many companies limit HND graduates to lower career levels, restricting their chances of promotion and professional growth. This bias not only stifles individual potential but also hinders national human capital development, as thousands of skilled and capable professionals are sidelined due to an outdated classification system. In a world where technical and vocational expertise should be valued alongside traditional academic degrees, Nigeria continues to reinforce a class divide between polytechnic and university graduates, to the detriment of its workforce. Beyond the employment barrier, the HND route is a significant waste of time for many students who choose it, often out of financial constraints or admission difficulties in universities. While a BSc degree typically takes four to five years to complete, HND graduates spend two years in ND, another two in HND, plus an extra year of mandatory industrial training (IT), totaling five years, yet they still face limitations. Many are forced to undergo additional “conversion” programs to obtain a BSc equivalent before they can fully compete for jobs, resulting in prolonged academic years with no guaranteed career advantage. This inefficiency discourages technical education, leaving polytechnics struggling with declining enrollment as students opt for university programs to avoid discrimination. For some fields, the HND qualification is practically terminal, making professional certification nearly impossible without additional academic upgrades. A glaring example is Architecture, where HND holders cannot obtain full professional licensing until they complete a university “conversion” to BSc Architecture before proceeding to an MSc or the necessary professional exams. This puts HND graduates in a disadvantaged loop, forcing them to either spend extra years bridging the gap or abandon their career ambitions altogether. Such structural barriers devalue polytechnic education and create unnecessary obstacles for skilled individuals, limiting their contributions to national development. The refusal to eliminate this outdated dichotomy not only wastes time, talent, and resources but also slows Nigeria’s progress in key industries that rely on technical expertise. The 2021 Bill, which aimed to abolish this discrimination, was a beacon of hope, yet it remains unsigned, leaving thousands of graduates in limbo. Instead of directing anger at institutions like Taraba State University, who recently published employment opportunities exuded these previously highlighted biases, efforts should be channeled towards pressuring the National Assembly and the Presidency to revive the bill. HND holders, student bodies, and advocacy groups must intensify their push for reform, ensuring that every qualification is given the respect it deserves. Only then can Nigeria build a truly inclusive, fair, and productive workforce that maximizes the potential of all its graduates. Idris AnimasaunArchitect and Social Change Advocate

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“A Call for Sustainable Urban Development and Community-Centered Growth” by Idris Animasaun

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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

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Mukaila Auxiliary: Reflections on Power, Struggles, and Fate

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One thing I can tell you for certain, many atrocities will be committed in the name of road union leadership. But beyond the chaos, behind the hardened voices and the fearsome reputations, lies a calculated effort to instill fear, an unspoken strategy to maintain power. Yet, beneath the surface, behind the actions, sometimes theirs, but often their followers’, there exists a father, a husband, a man with emotions hidden beneath the weight of his title. These were the moments I witnessed in the eyes of Mukaila Auxiliary when I met him a few days ago at Agodi Correctional Centre. The man before me was reflective, deeply aware of how all power ultimately belongs to Allah. He spoke with conviction, if he had been here before and found freedom, he was confident that mercy would find him once again. But what struck me the most was his unwavering respect for the very system that has kept him captive. Behind his humbled face, I could still see the echoes of battles fought, the weight of a struggle that never truly ended. And for a moment, I found myself reminiscing, about the times I tried to reach out, not just to him, but to the very structure he represented. I grew up in the heat and heart of it all in the early 2000s. • I’ve met Alhaji Akewusola Tokyo. • I walked freely into Alhaji Tawa’s house almost every week. • I was raised in Molete—the HQ of Oyo Politics. I reminded him of how we first met at Oga’s house just days before the election. I was starstruck, yet I felt an overwhelming sense of pity. Deep down, I had a feeling it wouldn’t end well. If only they were smart enough… just if only. Power, Betrayal, and the Cycles of Fate Power is a revolving door, but loyalty is often left outside. The very people who struggle alongside you, who chant your name in the streets, are sometimes the first to disappear when the tide turns. Those who once swore allegiance become the architects of your downfall. The same system that rewards also punishes, and in the end, everyone is just another character in a script already written by fate. Auxiliary’s story is not unique—it is a script that has played out in history over and over again. The difference is only in the names, the faces, and the timeline. Idris AnimasaunArchitect and Social Change Advocate

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Unwanted Preaching and Public Etiquette: A Morning Bus Experience

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This morning, someone was preaching inside the bus, and with every other sentence, tiny droplets of saliva found their way onto my friend, who was unfortunately seated directly across from him. It got so uncomfortable that my friend had to borrow my bag just to shield his legs from the unintended “blessings.” Despite clearly noticing my friend’s discomfort, the preacher only offered a brief apology but didn’t make any effort to adjust his manner of speaking. I asked my friend why he didn’t just speak up about the situation. He sighed and said he didn’t want to come across as disrespectful. So, we endured the entire journey in silence. When we finally reached our destination, he shared an interesting perspective with me: What if someone else had stood up and loudly declared, “Selu Alanabi Li Kerim” (a common phrase in religious gatherings)? I replied, “Salala Alehi Salam,” as expected. He then pointed out how, in such a scenario, those who had previously ignored the discomfort would suddenly start taking sides, arguing that since the preacher started first, he should be allowed to continue uninterrupted. Well, lesson learned. Next time someone tries that nonsense with me, I’ll pull out my mobile speaker and blast some Naira Marley at full volume. Let’s see how that plays out!

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Navigating Your Architectural Journey: Making Informed Choices for a Successful Career

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Dear Aspiring Architectural Students, One of the most critical decisions you will make in your academic and professional journey is not just whether to study architecture but where and how you choose to pursue it. The path you take can significantly influence your future opportunities, and this is where careful consideration and informed decision-making become essential. One of the biggest mistakes you might make is to continue your architectural education beyond the Ordinary National Diploma (OND) level at a polytechnic, assuming that this will seamlessly transition into a successful architectural career. The reality is that this path is fraught with challenges, particularly due to the disparity between polytechnic and university qualifications in the field of architecture. This issue is compounded by outdated policies that have yet to be abolished, despite the significant impact they have on students’ futures. I recall an incident where a lecturer I knew from my polytechnic days came for an accreditation visit to Lead City University. I took the opportunity to ask a pointed question that almost caused an uproar. I revealed that I had been admitted to study architecture over 20 years ago and questioned why, despite knowing the hardships and disparities between polytechnic and university pathways, no guidance was given to me to avoid these pitfalls. This lack of guidance has led to years of wasted effort, as I found myself facing roadblocks such as being denied entry into a Master’s program after completing a Postgraduate Diploma in Landscape Architecture. This experience is not unique; it highlights a systemic issue where those who should be advocating for change are instead profiting from the status quo. The silence from professional bodies and educators on this matter is deafening, and it raises serious questions about the integrity of our educational system. It is high time we review and reform our educational policies to create a more equitable and integrated system that serves the best interests of students. It’s not enough to simply select a school or a course of study; you must ensure that the program you choose is accredited and recognized by the relevant professional bodies. This verification is crucial because pursuing a non-accredited program can result in wasted time, effort, and financial resources, ultimately limiting your career prospects. Parents and guardians play a pivotal role in this decision-making process. It is their responsibility to seek out all relevant information regarding the choices of schools and courses of study for their wards. This includes verifying the accreditation status of the programs their children wish to pursue. In today’s rapidly changing educational landscape, staying informed and vigilant is not just advisable, it’s necessary. The consequences of enrolling in a non-accredited program can be severe, leading to career setbacks and the need for additional qualifications later on. Furthermore, the role of guidance counselors in schools cannot be overemphasized. These professionals are in a unique position to provide valuable insights and advice to students, helping them navigate the complexities of educational choices. They are well-versed in the intricacies of accreditation, program requirements, and the professional landscape that students will eventually enter. As we speak, HND Architecture is terminal and should be considered as a terrible study route that elongates the amount of years to be spent in school for any intended professional. It is vital for students to pay close attention to the guidance offered by these counselors, as their advice can be instrumental in avoiding the pitfalls that have ensnared many unsuspecting students in the past. As you embark on your journey toward success, remember that it is not a race against others but a personal journey. Some may reach their goals quickly, while others may take longer, but the important thing is to keep moving forward. If you find that a particular path is not working, take a moment to pause, reassess, and choose a new direction. The key is to remain focused on your destination, knowing that with perseverance and the right guidance, you will ultimately achieve your goals. Idris Animasaun Architect and Social Change Advocate

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Tragedy at Eleyele Junction: A Call for a Cleaner, Safer, and Sustainable Environment

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A few days ago, a tragic incident occurred at Eleyele Junction in Ibadan Metropolis. According to eyewitness accounts, a truck loaded with granite lost control and struck roadside traders before crashing into a garage where passengers were waiting. This devastating accident left several injured, lives lost, and the community in chaos and mourning. This heartbreaking event underscores the urgent need to address the dangers of roadside trading and its impact on public safety. While the Oyo State Government has repeatedly warned against trading on walkways, setbacks, and main roads, citing concerns about city aesthetics and public safety, recent events suggest a gap in enforcement and commitment to maintaining a safer environment. Underpasses at Molete, Mokola, and similar locations have become hubs for traders and beggars, raising questions about the state’s resolve in addressing this growing menace. A visit to the Challenge area reveals how pedestrian walkways have been overtaken by traders, forcing pedestrians onto busy roads and endangering their lives. Despite the visible presence of officers from the Oyo State Road Traffic Maintenance Agency (OYRTMA), enforcement remains weak. One anonymous trader disclosed that individuals regularly collect revenue from them for using these spaces. This raises critical questions: • Who is collecting this revenue? • Were these spaces designed for trading? • Why aren’t the environmental task force and other agencies enforcing regulations effectively? If the state government is truly committed to creating a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable environment, immediate action is required. Enforcement of regulations must be swift and consistent, complemented by sustained advocacy and awareness campaigns. These campaigns should target schools, markets, and malls, emphasizing the importance of maintaining order, cleanliness, and public safety. A cleaner and safer Ibadan is possible, but it requires intentionality and collective effort. Oyo shi ma dun! #ZeroToleranceIbadan #CleanerIbadan #Environment #SustainableDevelopment #Sustainability Idris Animasaun Architect and Social Change Advocate

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Dear Young Folks Series 9 (Redefining Milestones: Embracing Your Unique Journey in Life and Marriage.)

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Before my wedding, my mother advised me to achieve certain milestones before thinking about marriage. She believed the pressures of marriage could disrupt one’s dreams, a perspective shaped by her experiences and, perhaps, rightly so. However, I hold the belief that everything happens according to Allah’s will and timing.   “Verily, with hardship comes ease.” – Quran 94:6 Not everyone will own a house, but most will have a place to call home. Not everyone will get married or have children, and not everyone will own a car, but in a country with affordable public transportation, car ownership doesn’t define success. In fact, economic shifts, like those happening now, are changing how we view such things. “Happiness is not in the mere possession of money; it lies in the joy of achievement, in the thrill of creative effort.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt Unfortunately, peer pressure often sets unrealistic standards, leaving many confused about their path. Some even resort to harmful actions to meet these expectations. It’s critical to recognize that there’s no single manual to life.   “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind.” – Romans 12:2 For me, milestones like owning land, buying my first and second cars, raising two beautiful boys, and going back to school for a degree all happened *after* marriage. And some of my greatest achievements are yet to come—even after the age of 35. “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill So, I urge you: don’t let peer pressure dictate your decisions. Life unfolds differently for everyone, and your journey is uniquely yours.   “Comparison is the thief of joy.” – Theodore Roosevelt Idris Animasaun Architect and Social Change Advocate  

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Compassion, Courage, and Accountability: A Reflection on Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat and Government Responsibility

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I have often been critical of some media practices associated with Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat, primarily based on the ethical standards one would expect regulatory bodies like the NBC and NCC to enforce. However, it is impossible to overlook his profound humanitarian efforts and his genuine love for the masses. This became even more evident during my visit to him on Sunday at the Agodi Correctional Centre, where I witnessed an incredible outpouring of solidarity from people of all walks of life. What struck me most was his remarkable ability to connect deeply with so many individuals, recognizing their faces, recalling their names, and empathizing with their emotions. Alhaji Oriyomi Hamzat displayed extraordinary compassion, courage, and humanity during our interactions. He spoke about his tireless efforts to support the affected families, whom he considers part of his community, refusing to abandon them in their moment of need. While we remain committed to upholding the rule of law, it is imperative for the government to take full responsibility for its role in the events leading to and following such tragedies. Neglecting this duty only undermines the progress we seek as a society. May Oyo State continue to tread the path of greatness, guided by accountability, empathy, and a commitment to the welfare of its people. Idris Animasaun Architect and Social Change Advocate

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