By Ayobami Ife, Abeokuta
The Ogun State Ministry of Urban and Physical Planning has honoured Pelican Valley Nigeria Limited and its Chief Executive Officer, Ambassador (Dr) Babatunde Adeyemo, with an award of recognition for promoting sustainable real estate development, adherence to approved planning standards and consistent support for World Habit Day celebration in the state.
Presenting the award to him at his office within The Podium, Pelican Valley Estate Laderin during the week, the permanent secretary of the ministry, represented by town planner Olugbenga Ashiru., commended Pelican Valley Nigeria Limited for operating her Estates with government-approved layouts which integrates critical infrastructure and amenities, describing the development as a benchmark for responsible urban development and growth in the state.
“Pelican Valley Estates have government-approved layouts—that is why you see proper road networks, designated recreational areas, and space for other essential amenities. We recognise and appreciate this as sustainable real estate development,” a ministry representative said.
The ministry also lauded Adeyemo for his consistent support of World Habitat Day activities, noting that the global event—backed by the United Nations—promotes sustainable urban development, reflects on the condition of cities, and reinforces the fundamental right to adequate shelter.
“That is why we deem it befitting to recognise him—not just for his support, but for encouraging building the right way,” the official added.
Highlighting the importance of proper town planning in the country, the ministry stressed that infrastructure such as underground water systems and fibre optic cables should be incorporated at the design stage, rather than disrupting existing roads to lay pipes and cables after development.
“You don’t start tearing roads apart to install basic infrastructure. All of that should be embedded in the planning process. Proper planning brings about development,” the official said.
According to him, effective urban planning ensures clear zoning for roads, hospitals, schools, residential and commercial areas, as well as industrial and agricultural belts—preventing incompatible developments such as workshops located beside schools.
“Planning ensures that what is happening in one building aligns with what is going on in the next. There is no room for haphazard development,” the ministry emphasised.
He urged residents and developers across Ogun State to obtain necessary permits and approvals before commencing any construction, particularly on large parcels of land exceeding one acre.
He noted that proper designation of roads, drainage systems, and public infrastructure is essential to achieving orderly development.
The ministry official further pointed out that the appeal of well-developed environments around the world lies not in extravagant structures, but in the quality of planning that guides them.
“All those beautiful places we admire—what sets them apart is planning. Buildings are well arranged, infrastructure is coordinated, and road networks are structured. That is what creates beauty,” he said.
Drawing comparisons between cities and countries, he maintained that planning remains the key differentiator.
“The difference between Nigeria and the United States is planning. The difference between Abeokuta and Ajah in Lagos is planning,” he noted.
Encouraging developers to adopt structured planning principles, the ministry called for the creation of more organised communities across the state.
“If we can inculcate this mindset, we can create mini ‘paradise on earth’ developments like Pelican Valley. When replicated on a larger scale, we can achieve a truly organised and livable environment—but that cannot happen without proper planning,” the ministry concluded.
