Institute Criticizes States for Not Adopting Urban and Regional Planning Law

The Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) has voiced concerns about the failure of many states to domesticate the Nigerian Urban and Regional Planning Law of 1992.

The institute called on traditional rulers to help promote sustainable physical planning, environmental management and orderly urban development across Nigeria.

During a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the Enugu State Council of Traditional Rulers and to HRM Igwe Asadu, the Ogadagidi 1 of Edem Ani Kingdom, Mr Ufot‑Akpabio, Assistant National Public Relations Secretary of NITP, delivered the institute’s message.

The delegation, led by NITP National President Dr Chime Ogbonna, expressed hope that the new partnership with traditional institutions would elevate town‑planning and environmental‑management issues to a priority status.

In part, the statement read: “The National President informed HRH Igwe Asadu, the Ogadagidi 1, about the non‑domestication of the Nigerian Urban and Regional Planning Law of 1992 by many states, including Enugu State, and called on him to assist the Institute in that direction both in Enugu State and beyond.”

He also praised the Royal father for his leadership and dedication to preserving traditional values, promoting peace and good governance in Enugu State and Nigeria at large, and informed him of the upcoming 2026 International Conference/60th Anniversary.

In his reply, Igwe Asadu thanked the National President and his entourage for the visit, highlighted the benefits of town planning, and expressed his readiness to support the Institute in achieving its objectives.

He commended the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners for its professional contributions to the development of functional cities, towns and communities across the country, assured the Institute of continued support and cooperation from traditional institutions in advancing sustainable development initiatives, and encouraged the Institute to persist in its advocacy across the nation.