Nigerian Institute of Town Planners calls for 10-year regional development plans

The Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) has urged the Federal Government to extend the country’s regional development planning framework from four years to a minimum of 10 years. The institute stated that longer frameworks are necessary to ensure continuity, consistency, and sustainable development.

During its 57th International Conference and Annual General Meeting in Lagos, the NITP warned that weak institutional commitment and poor coordination are undermining Nigeria’s development prospects. The institute recommended that physical planning be made an integral part of national and regional decision-making processes.

In Kogi State, the NITP chapter expressed concern regarding uncoordinated physical development in areas such as Lokoja, Anyigba, Okene, Kabba, Ankpa, Ajaokuta, and Obajana. The chapter noted that many major settlements lack updated master plans, leading to infrastructure shortages and environmental degradation. The institute called on the Kogi State Government to prioritize the formulation of comprehensive master plans for the capital and other growing urban nodes.

Additionally, Prof. Kingsley C. Ogboi was elected as the new National President of the NITP for the 2026/2027 administrative year.