PhD Student Hadiza Kabiru Mado reflecting on Summer School 2025
Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria Email
Inclusive Urban Futures for African Cities: Reflection of a Summer School Study Tour, May 2025
My engagement in the workshop deepened my understanding of the summer school theme titled ‘Inclusive Urban Futures’ to conceive a notion that transcends mere accessibility to include participation, equity, and systematic transformation in cities. Inclusive urban futures are neither utopian nor inevitable; they demand intentional and contested action. This blog will now integrate these reflections, emphasizing how my participation in the workshop can present praxis (theory and practice) for equitable cities.
Our study tour to Redemption Camp has stretched my discussion, coming from a town planning background, and as a doctoral student working in the area of gentrification. The structure of the camp is considered a target selection for inclusive urban futures in a typical setting of a city in sub-Saharan Africa, only as a reflection.
The camp was established in 1983 and is located along the Lagos-Ibadan expressway in Mowe, Ogun State. It is more than just a religious site. It’s a sprawling spiritual haven, a city of faith, and a testament to Nigeria’s vibrant Christian community. Home to the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), this camp attracts millions of worshippers annually, especially during its famous Holy Ghost congress and annual convention.
My experience was nothing short of awe-inspiring. From its massive auditorium to its serene environment, the camp offers a unique blend of worship, relaxation, and community. The Camp is not just for RCCG members: it’s a must-visit for anyone seeking spiritual refreshment, an architectural wonder, or a peaceful retreat from city life. Whether you come for worship, curiosity, or relaxation, the camp leaves a lasting impression. As we drove into the camp, the first thing that struck me was its sheer size.
The Redemption Camp is more than just a church; it’s a mini-city with the new auditorium (3x3km Arena), the old auditorium, the Holy Ghost ground, schools, hospitals, and markets. The camp functions as a self-sustained community. The atmosphere was peaceful, with well-paved roads, lush greenery, and a sense of order quite different from the usual Lagos hustle. Walking inside the auditorium, I was amazed by its sheer scale, endless rows of seats, massive LED screens, and a stage that accommodates thousands of choir members (over 7 million people), one of the largest worship centers in the world. Even when empty, the auditorium felt powerful; imagine the energy during a live service! The auditorium’s roof is designed to reflect sunlight, keeping the interior cool despite Nigeria’s heat. A short walk from the auditorium is the prayer tower, a serene spot for personal meditation and intercession. The ambiance was tranquil. Visitors can write prayer requests and drop them in designated boxes, a touching tradition.
However, I assume, RCCG demonstrates how non-state actors can fill infrastructure gaps. It exemplifies Africa’s ‘urban revolution’, where religious institutions act as de facto urban planners. On the other hand, as a Ph.D. student working in the area of gentrification, my concern is that the land-grabbing process in the constant expansion of the camp may cause direct or indirect displacement. In an attempt to explore Sustainable Development Goal 11 (UN, 2015), “Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable”.
