Foreword

The twenty first century presents unprecedented challenges for cities across the world. Climate change, rapid urbanisation, environmental degradation, infrastructure deficits, and widening social inequalities have redefined the responsibilities of urban planners and policy makers. The pursuit of resilient and liveable cities has therefore become a global imperative, requiring planning approaches that are innovative, inclusive, evidence-based, and responsive to local realities, particularly in the rapidly urbanising countries of the Global South.

Within this context, this book on ‘Resilience and Liveable Cities in a Warming World’ makes a timely and valuable contribution. Bringing together an impressive collection of scholarly works, the book advances current discourse on urban resilience and sustainable urban development through analyses of climate adaptation, environmental governance, housing, public health, disaster risk reduction, mobility, technological innovation, and participatory planning. Collectively, the chapters demonstrate the multidisciplinary nature of contemporary planning and the need for integrated responses to increasingly complex urban challenges.

Beyond its scholarly value, this volume is a fitting tribute to Tpl. Dr. Joshua Adewumi Adebisi, FNITP, RTP, whose career exemplifies scholarship, professional excellence, principled leadership, and dedicated service. Over more than three decades, he has distinguished himself as an educator, researcher, administrator, consultant, and mentor, contributing significantly to planning education, institutional development, and professional practice in Nigeria. His involvement in strategic planning projects, commitment to mentoring future planners, and exemplary administrative leadership reflect a career devoted to advancing knowledge and practice. Equally noteworthy is his ability to combine these accomplishments with an enduring commitment to Christian ministry and community service, demonstrating that professional distinction is best expressed through integrity, humility, and service to humanity.

A major strength of this Festschrift is its successful integration of theory, empirical investigation, and practical relevance. It deepens understanding of the institutional, environmental, technological, and governance dimensions of resilience while providing valuable insights for researchers, practitioners, and policy makers. As urban planning continues to evolve in response to climate uncertainty and changing socioeconomic realities, this book will serve as an important reference for academics, postgraduate students, professionals, development agencies, and government institutions.

The editors deserve commendation for the work done in this book to honour a distinguished career and advance planning scholarship. I confidently recommend the book to all who are committed to building resilient, sustainable, and liveable cities. It stands as a lasting testament to the enduring legacy of Tpl. Dr. Joshua Adewumi Adebisi, whose life and career continue to exemplify scholarship, professionalism, integrity, and selfless service.

Professor Oluwole Daramola, PhD, FNITP, RTP, MNES, TRCN

Professor and Head of Urban and Regional Planning,

Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, Nigeria

2nd Assistant National Secretary, Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP)