Prof. Kingsley Ogboi, president of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP), has called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to promote sustainable, inclusive and resilient human settlements in Nigeria.
Ogboi made the call in a statement issued on Monday in Uyo to mark the 2026 World Town Planning Day (WTPD).
The theme for the 2026 WTPD is “Great Communities Are Built on Planning.”
He emphasised the importance of collective action, effective planning and coordinated development in addressing the growing challenges facing cities and communities.
Ogboi said building sustainable communities required a shared commitment to sound physical planning, responsible land use, infrastructure development and environmental protection.
“Today, town planners in Nigeria are joining governments, cities, communities and urban practitioners around the world to mark the 2026 World Town Planning Day.
“We use this annual celebration to advance the cause of the urban and regional planning profession.
“We want the world to know that planning is most effective when all stakeholders work together,” he said.
Ogboi said planners and communities could work together to create well-designed, equitable, resilient and life-enhancing communities.
According to him, town planning should not be regarded as the sole responsibility of professional planners or government institutions. It requires the active participation of all stakeholders, especially residents, whose needs, aspirations and experiences should inform decisions about their communities.
He added that collaborative planning could help bridge the gap between development policies and communities’ realities.
“Urban and rural development initiatives should meet people’s needs and safeguard the interests of future generations,” he said.
Ogboi said WTPD should highlight the need for inclusive development, ensuring that everyone—regardless of age, gender, income level or physical ability—could access opportunities, infrastructure and essential services.
