As Nigeria marked its 65th Independence Anniversary on October 1st, 2025, the National President of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP), TPL Dr. Ogbonna Chime, delivered a heartfelt and purposeful address to members of the institute, reflecting on the nation’s journey and the profession’s role in shaping its built environment.
In his address, Dr. Chime acknowledged the significance of the day as a moment of national pride and introspection. He paid tribute to the pioneers of the institute whose vision and tireless efforts laid the foundation for the NITP’s growth into a formidable voice for sustainable, equitable, and orderly development across Nigeria. According to him, the progress made by the institute is a testament to the legacy of those who have devoted their lives to the profession. However, he also emphasized that the journey toward achieving a fully planned and resilient Nigeria is far from complete.
While celebrating these milestones, the NITP President did not shy away from confronting ongoing challenges. He highlighted the continued marginalization of the urban and regional planning profession in both national and institutional structures. A major concern raised was the persistent failure to implement the Nigerian Urban and Regional Planning Act, CAP N138, LFN 2004—a critical legal framework designed to guide planning practices across the country. Dr. Chime noted that this non-compliance has significantly weakened planning outcomes and reduced the profession’s impact where it is most needed.
He also condemned the disregard for directives from the National Universities Commission (NUC), particularly in the appointment of Directors of Physical Planning in tertiary institutions and federal agencies. This, he stated, undermines the role of qualified town planners and erodes institutional credibility. Dr. Chime called for unity and collective advocacy to ensure that such statutory provisions are respected, and town planners are placed in appropriate decision-making positions.
Assuring members of the institute’s unwavering commitment to justice and professional recognition, the NITP President revealed that the leadership continues to engage with relevant authorities to address cases of professional persecution and misplacement in various states. He reaffirmed that town planners play an essential—not optional—role in shaping Nigeria’s future.
Dr. Chime expressed deep gratitude to members of the institute for their resilience, professionalism, and commitment in diverse fields including academia, public service, private practice, and community development. He acknowledged that the strength of the NITP lies in the dedication of its members, who remain the backbone of the profession.
Looking ahead, he urged members to actively participate in the institute’s upcoming International Conference and Annual General Meeting (AGM) scheduled to take place in Abuja. He described the event as a crucial platform for intellectual exchange, strategic networking, and showcasing Nigeria’s planning expertise on a global stage. The colloquium segment, he noted, promises to be transformative in tackling the country’s complex urban and regional development issues.
Concluding his address, Dr. Chime called on members to renew their commitment to excellence, integrity, and public service. As custodians of Nigeria’s physical development and community wellbeing, he charged town planners to remain steadfast in their duty to create livable and inclusive environments.
He ended with a patriotic salute: “Long live the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Happy 65th Independence Anniversary, Nigeria.”