Urban populations are growing at an unprecedented pace all over the world. This puts enormous pressure on housing provision, transport systems, infrastructure, energy supply, environmental sustainability, and public services, Shuaib Belgore, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, said during the event titled “High-Level Energy and Urban Dialogue of D-8 Countries” held within the framework of the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Baku, APA reports.
He noted that cities have become engines of economic development and innovation:
“However, at the same time, they are more vulnerable to climate change, energy security problems, environmental degradation, and social inequalities. The decisions we make today regarding urban planning and energy systems will determine the future resilience, prosperity, and sustainable development of our countries.”
He emphasized that these issues are especially important for Nigeria.
“Because Nigeria is one of the fastest urbanizing countries in the world. The population in our cities is rapidly increasing, demand for housing is rising, and energy consumption is growing. This reality necessitates planning approaches that place sustainability, resilience, and inclusiveness at the center. The Federal Government of Nigeria is implementing reforms aimed at improving people’s quality of life through infrastructure development, affordable housing provision, economic development, and sustainable urbanization. This forum once again makes us realize that the future of humanity is increasingly connected with cities. Our shared responsibility is to transform cities into centers of opportunity, resilience, sustainable development, and human dignity. Nigeria remains fully committed to developing policies and initiatives supporting sustainable urban development and clean energy integration together with D-8 countries and international partners.”
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