Business and Economy
Illegal Development Responsible for Urban Crisis in FCT — NITP
By our Correspondent
The Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) has attributed the growing urban crisis in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to illegal developments, blocked drainages, and indiscriminate land allocations carried out without professional consultation.
Speaking during a joint commemoration of World Habitat Day and World Cities Day in Abuja, the FCT Chairman of NITP, Mrs.
According to her, Abuja is facing mounting pressure due to rapid population growth, inadequate infrastructure, informal settlements, climate-induced stresses, and conflicts over land use.
Mrs. Philips identified specific flood-prone areas such as parts of Asokoro, Guzape, and Trademore, noting that the challenges in these locations stem from disregard for planning layouts. She lamented that professional bodies responsible for proper layouts are often sidelined by influential individuals in the FCT.
She disclosed that the NITP is seeking an audience with the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, to offer professional guidance on restoring the Abuja Master Plan. While commending the minister’s massive infrastructure and road development projects, she expressed confidence that incorporating professional advice would further strengthen his efforts, reduce flooding, and prevent displacement of residents.
Highlighting the 2025 themes — “Urban Crisis Response” for World Habitat Day and “People-Centred Smart Cities” for World Cities Day — Mrs. Philips emphasized that a truly smart city must prioritize people, asserting that technology should serve humanity rather than promote exclusion.
“If there is anything that needs to be changed, we should recall the original designers of these layouts and consult with the appropriate organizations for expert advice,” she said.
Reiterating institutional shortcomings, Mrs. Philips stressed that professional planning bodies are frequently ignored in decision-making processes.
“We have written letters to seek an audience with the FCT Minister. We know he is committed to restoring the city to its original design. As professionals, we share that same goal and are eager to collaborate with him,” she added.
In his remarks, the immediate past National President of NITP, Nathaniel Atebije, warned that neglecting physical planning poses grave risks to national development.
“I want everyone to understand that we must either embrace proper planning or face dire consequences. We must urgently address this crisis to make our cities livable and sustainable,” Atebije cautioned.
The event concluded with a novelty football match symbolizing partnership between professional planners and youth groups. Declaring the match open, Mrs. Philips expressed optimism that the camaraderie would inspire “deeper reflection and action” toward resolving Abuja’s urban development challenges.