The Guest Speaker at the 2025 Annual Lecture & Awards of the Property and Environment Writers Association of Nigeria (PEWAN), Dr. Adesina Emmanuel Aladeloba, Chief Lecturer/Dean, School of Environment Studies, Yaba College of Technology, has called for urgent action to embed sustainability principles into modern housing and urban development in Nigeria.
Speaking on the sub-theme “Sustainability in Modern Housing and Urban Development” at the event held in Lagos, Aladeloba stressed that sustainability is central to addressing the dual challenges of housing demand and waste management in rapidly growing urban centers like Lagos.
“Sustainability means meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs,” he noted, emphasizing environmental, social, and economic dimensions.
He highlighted the importance of eco-friendly housing solutions such as solar panels, smart home technologies, natural ventilation, and the use of locally sourced or recycled building materials.
On the issue of waste management, Aladeloba underscored the role of Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Private Sector Participants (PSPs), and the informal sector, while also pointing to the challenges faced by private operators like Visionscape and Revive.
He identified population growth, rising housing demand, and poor regulation as critical drivers of waste generation, stressing the urgent need for better policies and innovative solutions.
He further called attention to opportunities in sustainable housing, including reduced energy consumption, increased property value, and improved quality of life.
“Buildings contribute to one-third of total greenhouse gas emissions. Sustainable features not only cut emissions but also reduce long-term maintenance costs,” he said.
Looking ahead, Aladeloba recommended stronger regulations, better enforcement, and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and new technologies into waste management and sustainable housing practices.
“Government alone cannot handle Lagos’ waste. Collaboration with the private sector, communities, and the use of smart innovations is the way forward,” he stressed.
The lecture concluded with a call to action for policymakers, regulators, developers, and citizens to embrace sustainability as a non-negotiable priority for urban growth, environmental protection, and public wellbeing.
