The Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) President, Nathaniel Atebije, lamented at the institute’s quarterly press conference held in Abuja recently with the theme “Wake up, Nigeria, and put on strength” that the total lack of physical planning on new sites being developed by the Federal Government.
Atebije queries the government’s adherence to fundamental technical processed before the commencement of the 3112 housing unit under the Renewed Hope cities.
He also added that the essence of the conference was to undertake serious diagnosis of issues related to the growth and development of the country, particularly as it relates to the physical planning of the land resources.
According to Atebije, the submission of development proposals for technical scrutiny, environmental impact assessment, and development permits is critical to avert the consequences of a poorly planned city.
He said, “Recently, the government unveiled a housing programme and we give kudos to the President and ministers that birthed the groundbreaking of the Renewed Hope Cities. There is no doubt that the programme is lofty, gigantic, and may be beneficial to Nigerians.
“However, there are still some puzzling questions that agitate our minds to ask if the houses are built. Are they intended to increase the numerical strength of the nation’s housing stock or to make dwelling units available and affordable to vulnerable and underprivileged Nigerians?