Ibadan – As cities evolve, the balance between modernization and preservation becomes ever more critical. In the final installment of The Landlords’ “Ibadan Real Estate Renaissance” series, we bring forward a powerful conversation that strikes at the heart of this tension-led by none other than veteran architect and urban thinker, Arc. Sunkanmi Onadeko FNIA.
Featured on The Landlords (Radio Edition), Arc. Onadeko expressed deep reservations over the government’s growing practice of rezoning and commercializing Ibadan’s historic Government Reserved Areas (GRAs). While revenue generation is a valid pursuit, he cautioned that such decisions, when made without professional input or a long-term masterplan, risk destroying the city’s essence. In his words, “this is tantamount to destroying the livability of the space and the people.”
We believe that real estate is more than just development—it’s stewardship. And Arc. Onadeko’s message resonates strongly with this philosophy. His call for intentional planning, environmental sensitivity, and stakeholder engagement mirrors the very advocacy The Landlords stands for.
The conversation also turned toward an often-overlooked element in urban design: recreation. Arc. Onadeko questioned why a city as vast and culturally rich as Ibadan has yet to prioritize open green spaces and public relaxation zones. In today’s climate-aware world, these aren’t luxuries—they are necessities for a livable, breathable city.
A Call to Action for Professionals and Policymakers
As we close this series, one message rings clear: the future of our cities must be shaped by professionals—architects, planners, engineers, environmentalists—working hand-in-hand with policymakers. Quick fixes and revenue-driven rezoning may offer short-term gains, but only inclusive, expert-led strategies can secure the long-term well-being of urban spaces and their people.
We remain committed to this mission. Through our platform, The Landlords, we will continue to elevate professional voices, support evidence-based planning, and drive conversations that shape a better-built Nigeria.
Please click the link below to watch the full interview
