Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, has called on all tiers of government to renew their commitment to the effective implementation of the 1992 Urban and Regional Planning Law, describing it as vital to Nigeria’s sustainable growth and orderly development.
Radda made the call at the National Colloquium of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP), which was held in Abuja and had the theme “Promoting Inclusive Land Use Planning for Sustainable National Growth and Development in Nigeria.”
Represented by his deputy, Alhaji Faruk Lawal Jobe, the governor said Katsina was among the few states that had fully implemented the provisions of the 1992 law, which decentralises planning responsibilities across the three tiers of government.
He said: “Planning is not merely about controlling development, but about expanding opportunity, creating habitable communities, and ensuring equitable growth across all parts of the state. Proper planning contributes directly to peace, stability, and effective governance.”
Radda disclosed that his administration had invested over ₦1 billion to re-equip the state’s Urban and Regional Planning Board with modern tools for effective enforcement and development control. He added that more than $72 billion was being committed to urban renewal projects focused on upgrading road infrastructure in the state capital.
He said new master plans for Katsina, Funtua and Daura were recently completed after more than two decades of neglect, while four additional cities would have legislated plans by the third quarter of 2026.
He urged the colloquium to produce actionable recommendations to help states lagging behind align their urban development strategies with national priorities.
Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Architect Ahmed Dangiwa commended the NITP for its foresight but lamented poor coordination among government agencies and weak enforcement of the 1992 law.
“The realities of urbanisation, climate change and technology have outpaced the provisions of the law. It needs urgent updates and collective commitment to remain relevant,” Dangiwa said.
NITP president, Dr Ogbonna Chime, said the presence of key government officials at the event proved that authorities were now showing genuine interest in enforcing the law across all tiers.
He said implementing the Urban and Regional Planning Law would end the prevalence of unplanned settlements and improve living standards nationwide.
“This law is not just for town planners—it is for all Nigerians,” Chime added. “It ensures that our communities are properly planned, liveable, and resilient.”
