In a strong commitment to enhancing urban development in Anambra State, Governor Professor Chukwuma Soludo has reaffirmed the importance of collaboration with town planners, emphasizing their crucial role in the effective development of cities.
This declaration was made during the opening ceremony of the 26th edition of the Mandatory Continuing Professional Development Programme (MCPDP) organized by the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) in partnership with the Town Planners Registration Council of Nigeria (TOPREC). The event, themed "Developing New Frontiers for Improved Physical Planning Practice in Nigeria," took place over two days in Awka, Anambra State.
Represented by the State Commissioner for Lands, Professor Offornze Amucheazi, Governor Soludo assured the audience of his administration's dedication to integrating more town planners into governance. He stated, “The government, through the Ministry of Lands, has consistently collaborated with town planners to ensure that the right measures are enacted.” He further noted that town planners play an integral role in the conception, design, implementation, and execution of various development projects.
Highlighting ongoing initiatives, Soludo mentioned the planned urban regeneration and the forthcoming establishment of two new cities in Awka and Onitsha, asserting, “The success of these projects hinges on the expertise of town planners. Failure to engage their services could result in undesirable urban outcomes.” He also acknowledged previous shortcomings in enforcing city planning regulations and underlined the necessity for a renewed focus on urban regeneration and strict adherence to master planning.
While acknowledging the current employment embargo in the state, Soludo expressed optimism about future hiring, indicating, “When the embargo is lifted, we will engage more town planners. Anambra takes your profession seriously, and our administration is committed to fostering the best planning practices.”
In his remarks, Professor Amucheazi reiterated the Soludo administration's recognition of proper town planning as essential for creating a peaceful and prosperous Anambra. He spoke about the development of the Anambra Geographic Information Systems (ANAMGIS) initiative as part of the state's commitment to effective town planning.
The National President of the NITP, Tpl Dr. Ogbonna Chime, encouraged the Anambra government to prioritize the development of comprehensive urban and regional plans and to recruit additional town planners to prepare for the challenges posed by rapid urbanization. “Anambra State has a critical need for well-trained town planners,” he emphasized, advocating for the implementation of the 1992 Nigerian Urban and Regional Planning Law as a framework for sustainable urban development.
Notably, presentations during the event addressed pressing issues in urban planning. Dr. Meshach Ojile from the Department of Environmental Management at Niger Delta University highlighted the necessity of Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA) for projects in the oil and gas sector. Dr. Daniel Adamu from Nasarawa State University stressed the importance of synergy among government bodies for effective project outcomes.
Former NITP Chairman for Anambra State, Tpl Dr. Joachin Uasi, shared insights on the need for town planners to stay updated on emerging trends in urban planning. He noted the value of community engagement in transitioning from traditional master planning to more inclusive, stakeholder-driven approaches.
The National Chairman of the Association of Women Town Planners in Nigeria (ANTPN), Tpl Rakiya Ahuoiza Fache, advocated for greater participation of women in decision-making processes related to urban planning, seeking to promote inclusivity in developmental projects.
The MCPDP concluded with a vote of thanks from Tpl Prof. Kingsley Ogboi, who commended Governor Soludo for his transformative leadership. Participants also engaged in group sessions and received certificates, reinforcing their commitment to implementing sustainable practices in their respective communities.