Nigerian Institute of Town Planners urban planning advocacy

The Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) has been advocating for improved urban planning and the enforcement of regional legislation to address challenges such as inadequate housing, unplanned urban expansion, and infrastructure deficits. The institute noted that the inadequate implementation of the Nigerian Urban and Regional Planning Act of 1992 has contributed to environmental issues, including flooding and waste management crises.

In more recent developments, the NITP has urged the Federal Government to extend the national regional development planning framework from four years to at least 10 years to ensure continuity and sustainability. During its 57th International Conference in Lagos, the institute warned that weak institutional commitment and poor coordination are undermining development prospects.

Specific concerns were raised regarding Kogi State, where the NITP noted that major settlements like Lokoja, Anyigba, and Okene lack updated master plans, leading to infrastructure shortages and environmental degradation. The institute has called on the Kogi State Government to prioritize comprehensive master plans for its growing urban nodes. Additionally, Prof. Kingsley C. Ogboi was elected as the NITP National President for the 2026/2027 administrative year.