ACCEPTANCE SPEECH BY THE NEWLY ELECTED CHAIRMAN, TPL. BELLO LATEEF AKINWALE, MNITP AT THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE ASSOCIATION OF TOWN PLANNING CONSULTANTS OF NIGERIA, LAGOS STATE BRANCH HELD ON 27TH, MAY 2025 AT LCCI BUILDING, OLOWOPOPO WAY, ALAUSA IKEJA.
Protocols
BOT Chairman, Past Presidents, Past Chairmen, Distinguished Heads of Member Firms and Staff, friends and guests.
Background
I am delighted and honoured to stand before you today, humbled by the trust you have placed in me as the newly elected Chairman of ATOPCON, Lagos State Branch.
Let me begin by appreciating the Almighty Allah, the giver of life, for this rare privilege to chair the leadership affairs of our great association. I count it as a privilege which should not be taken for granted.
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for your support and confidence reposed in me. I make this pledge to work tirelessly to justify your belief and serve our association with dedication, integrity and passion.
As Town Planning Consultants, we play a vital role in shaping the future of our communities. Our expertise and commitment are essential in creating liveable, sustainable and resilient spaces that promote social, economic and environmental development, as well as human well-being.
Our Programs
As the newly elected Chairman and Executive Committee, our focus will be to:
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Ensure the completion of the NITP–Joseph Awogbemi House building project;
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Enhance and advocate for our association’s relevance and influence in shaping urban planning policies and practices that prioritise sustainable urban planning and community development;
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Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration and excellent performance among our members, allied professionals and the larger society;
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Strengthen collaboration and partnerships with government agencies, the private sector and civil society organisations;
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Develop the capacity of members through regular trainings and workshops to enhance skills in areas such as sustainable urban planning, GIS and urban design, among others;
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Mentor new and young members of the association;
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Promote strong bonds with ATOPCON National Body as well as NITP, YPF and AWTPN within Lagos State;
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Pursue the execution of the proposed ATOPCON, LSB Housing Scheme;
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Embark on aggressive media engagements;
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Continue our Corporate Social Responsibility programmes; and
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Further improve the financial base of the association.
Conclusion
Recognising that this is a challenging but exciting time for our profession, I am confident that together we can overcome the challenges and achieve greatly. Let ATOPCON, Lagos State Branch rise not as a ceremonial gathering, but as a brain trust of action, innovation and advocacy.
The road ahead may not be easy. There may be trials, distractions and many challenges, but we must remain focused to arrive safely at our destination.
Thank you once again for this great honour. I look forward to serving our association with dedication. Let us work together to build a brighter future for our communities.
Thank you all for listening.
TPL. BELLO LATEEF AKINWALE, MNITP
27/05/2025