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Chief Lecturer in the Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Yaba College of Technology, Dr. Abubakar Mobolaji Olaseni, has challenged policymakers and planners to rethink Nigeria’s approach to transport and city planning.
Dr Olaseni made the remark at the 20th Inaugural Lecture of the institution entitled: “Beyond Mobility”.
The lecture, held at the Yusuf Grillo Auditorium on October 9, 2025, examined the intersection of urban planning, transportation systems, and sustainable development, calling for a paradigm shift from mere movement of people and goods to holistic accessibility, equity, and environmental stewardship
Dr. Olaseni, a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners and the Nigerian Institute of Transport Management, traced the history of urban development from ancient civilizations to modern smart cities. He emphasised that transportation is more than mobility; it is a lifeline of economic growth, social inclusion, and political empowerment.
“Transportation is not merely about moving from one point to another. It determines access to opportunities, defines the structure of our cities, and shapes the destiny of our people,” he declared.
The lecture highlighted that over 80 percent of average Nigerian wages now go to transportation, with road transport dominating the sector despite its inefficiencies. Dr. Olaseni argued that addressing mobility challenges requires integrating transportation with urban planning to achieve sustainable, liveable, and equitable cities.
Drawing from his decades-long research, the don presented findings from two major studies — the Oshodi-Isolo Model City Plan and the Locational Analysis of Intercity Passenger Terminals in Lagos.
He described the Oshodi-Isolo project as a blueprint for transforming chaotic urban centres into well-structured, inclusive communities, while his study on passenger terminals underscored the need for strategic location, safety, and accessibility in transport infrastructure.
Dr. Olaseni also traced global efforts from the United Nations and African Union to promote sustainable urban development, citing declarations from Stockholm (1972) to the New Urban Agenda (2016). He stressed that implementing these frameworks locally is crucial for Nigeria’s progress.
“Mobility is not just about roads and vehicles; it is about accessibility, affordability, and dignity for every citizen,” he said, urging planners and governments to prioritise integrated transport systems, affordable housing, and green infrastructure.
The Rector of Yaba College of Technology, Dr. Engr. Ibraheem Adedotun Abdul, in his remarks, praised Dr. Olaseni for his scholarly contributions and dedication to academic excellence, describing the lecture as “a roadmap for sustainable cities and inclusive development.”
The event, attended by top officials, scholars, students, and industry experts, marked the third inaugural lecture from the Department of Urban and Regional Planning and reaffirmed YABATECH’s reputation as Nigeria’s pioneer in technical and vocational education.
As the curtain fell on the thought-provoking presentation, one message resonated clearly: for Nigeria to move forward, its planning must go beyond mobility — toward accessibility, sustainability, and shared prosperity
