The Oyo State Government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening collaboration with the World Bank on urban livability and mobility projects. This was highlighted during a courtesy visit by a World Bank delegation led by Mr. Fuad Makawi to the Deputy Governor, Barr. Bayo Lawal, in Ibadan.
During the meeting, Lawal emphasized that while the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde has prioritized infrastructural development, there are still areas where further partnership with the World Bank can enhance urban planning and sustainability efforts in the state.
Mr. Makawi, in his remarks, stated that the team’s visit was aimed at gaining firsthand insights into the urban development landscape of Ibadan, particularly in waste management and other critical infrastructure areas.
The Urban Livability and Mobility Programmatic Analytics and Advisory Services (PASA) is designed to provide technical support to federal and state governments in improving the design and implementation of policies that enhance livability, competitiveness, and resilience in selected Nigerian cities. Currently, eleven major cities across the country, representing approximately 18% of Nigeria’s population (37–42 million people), are engaged in the PASA initiative.
The PASA program focuses on two key pillars:
1. Urban Livability – Addressing urban management, governance, waste disposal, housing, and land management.
2. Urban Mobility – Improving transportation networks, infrastructure, and climate resilience.
As part of the initiative, the World Bank has been working closely with the Oyo State Government through the Office of the Special Assistant to the Governor on Project Delivery and relevant ministries, including Physical Planning, Lands and Urban Development, Budget, and Environment. The mission aims to ensure high-level government buy-in, align strategic priorities, and map out the next steps for the program’s successful implementation.
The ongoing engagement underscores Oyo State’s commitment to sustainable urban development and the creation of a more livable and efficient environment for its residents.
The Deputy Governor was joined in receiving the World Bank delegation by key members of the Oyo State Government, including the Commissioner for Budget, Prof. Musibau Babatunde; the Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Mojeed Mogbonjubola; and the Commissioner for Trade and Investments, Niyi Adebisi.
Also present were Alhaji Gafar Bello, Executive Assistant to the Governor on Budget; Abiodun Oluwaseun Lurel, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Project Delivery; Mr. Akinsete Olakunle, Special Assistant on Housing and Urban Development; the Special Assistant on Environment; and Hon. Ademola Omotoso, Chairman of the Oyo State Housing Corporation.
