Ojukwu Seeks Stronger Partnership with Town Planners, Calls for Professionalism in Physical Planning
The Anambra State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Barr. Chijioke Ojukwu, has called on members of the Nigeria Institute of Town Planners (NITP), Anambra State Chapter, to uphold professionalism and strictly adhere to the provisions of the state’s Physical Planning Law.
Barr. Ojukwu made the call while receiving a delegation of the institute on a courtesy visit to his office in Amawbia, Awka South Local Government Area.
He stressed that all building plan submissions must clearly provide for the required facilities in line with existing building regulations, adding that developers who fail to meet approved standards should be issued queries rather than recommended for approval.
The commissioner also announced plans to engage professional town planners in developing a comprehensive urban planning framework for Anambra State.
According to him, the framework will designate specific zones for agriculture, industry and other critical sectors to promote orderly urban growth, efficient land use and sustainable development across the state.
Responding, the Chairman of the Nigeria Institute of Town Planners, Anambra State Chapter, Town Planner Ifeanyi Igwilo, congratulated Barr. Ojukwu on his appointment as the pioneer Commissioner for the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development.
He expressed the institute’s readiness to strengthen collaboration with the ministry to advance sustainable physical development in the state.
Town Planner Igwilo maintained that members who violate professional standards should be reported to the institute’s disciplinary body for appropriate sanctions.
He also advocated the review and renewal of existing development plans to reflect present day realities and support effective urban renewal across Anambra State.
Present at the meeting were the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Barr. Jessy Nwankwo, the Chief Town Planning Officer, Ajuluchukwu Nwankwo, and other members of the Nigeria Institute of Town Planners.
