The Lagos State government on Tuesday held a stakeholders’ meeting on the proposed establishment of a cemetery along Babs Animashaun Street, Surulere.

The meeting, which was held at Eko Club, was organised by the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development to seek public input on the proposal.

The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Oluyinka Olumide, said the engagement was part of efforts to ensure inclusive dialogue in physical planning.

He said it was important to involve all concerned parties in reviewing major planning projects to achieve balanced decisions.

Mr Olumide noted that the proposed cemetery was being considered to meet the pressing need for a burial ground within Surulere, which currently has none.

According to him, the plan aligns with the state’s policy of ensuring fair distribution of essential facilities such as health centres and other key infrastructure across all local government areas.

He said the location being considered for the project was suitable, given Lagos’ high population, limited land space, and global best practices in urban planning.

“Lagos is growing fast within a limited land area. We need creativity and collective effort to meet our planning needs,” he said.

He urged residents to assess the proposal objectively, noting that the project would serve the entire Surulere community.

Also speaking, the permanent secretary, Office of Physical Planning, Oluwole Sotire, said the meeting was aimed at promoting dialogue, addressing concerns, and building mutual understanding.

He said the project promoters, Legacy Gardens, had reviewed their earlier plan to address issues raised by stakeholders, especially concerns about groundwater contamination, safety, and security.

The project manager, Olumide Amure, stated that the proposed cemetery would have key features such as modern management facilities, street lighting, 24-hour security with CCTV, a drainage system, and a 20-metre setback from nearby buildings.

Two town planners, Risikat Bello and Sulaiman Raheem, also made presentations on the ministry’s assessment of the proposal.

The stakeholders at the meeting expressed mixed views, with some supporting the project and others opposing it.

The ministry said that another meeting would be held soon to continue discussions on the proposal.

(NAN)