Paying tribute to the Late Mrs Catherine Kehinde George, the first female town planner in Nigeria and Sub-Sahara Africa, town planners in the country have been urged to emulate her virtues.
Describing her passage as a loss to the profession, the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP), Mr Nathaniel Atebije, said “The planning family in Nigeria, and Africa has lost a gem of no mean value:
The Evening of Tribute was organised by the Lagos Chapter of NITP in memory of the first female chairman of the chapter.
Apart from being the first female town planner in Nigeria, the Late Mrs C.K. George, a fellow of NITP, held several positions including the pioneer and first female Chairman of Lagos Mainland Local Planning Authority and first female chairman, Lagos chapter of NITP and received many academic, professional and community service awards in her lifetime.
Atebije described her as “A flag bearer, a colossus, a visionary leader who lived as a way-maker, energy-booster and solace provider for the young aspiring planners and great partner to senior professional colleagues.
“A realist, futuristic, pragmatic professional yet an epitome of humility. An ever-learning and teaching student, mother and mentor; always cheerful and grateful for even an insignificant favour and assistance given to her. She was known for continuously seeking for who to share resources, ideas and endowments with.”
As a consultant, he said she contributed to organisation of land uses in school campuses and communities in various parts of Nigeria.
According to him, she left behind a legacy of innovation, compassion, and community spirit that will endure for generations.
“She was an exemplary leader, a beacon of compassion and kindness: generous to a fault: seeking to provide comfort to others first before herself. In her life time, she selflessly devoted her time and expertise to various in her life leaving indelible marks and guide us as she served,” Atebije said.
Past President of NITP, Mr Olutoyin Ayinde, urged members to emulate the good virtues of the first female town planner im in Nigeria, describing her as a teacher, core professional and peace lover.”
Others,who paid trubutes at the occasion with her family members in attendance included her professional colleagues and students.
According to Mrs Bello Risikat Bukola, the Pioneer National Chairman, Association of Women Town Planners in Nigeria (AWTPN), said that late Mrs George was a kind hearted, humble and highly intelligent “Mummy and a great role.”
Chairman, Lagos NITP, Omotayo Awomosun, described Mrs George as an «incredible woman who had starred in many roles for the profession – She was a public servant, teacher, consultant, writer, author and mentor among many others.
“I dare say that she valiantly soldiered for the profession and humanity in all these roles.”
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