The Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah, has reiterated his administration’s dedication to fostering a business-friendly environment through innovative land administration policies and legal reforms.
Speaking during the investiture of Dr. Chime Ogbonna as the 26th National President of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) in Enugu on Saturday, Mbah emphasized the significance of the Enugu State Property Protection Law, commonly referred to as the anti-land-grabbing law. This legislation aims to promote transparency, accountability, and sustainable urban development by curbing illegal land acquisitions.
Represented by the Commissioner for Lands and Urban Development, Chimaobi Okorie, the governor highlighted the administration’s progress in enacting pivotal laws to enhance urban planning and land management. These include the Enugu State Geographic Information System Law, the New Enugu City Development Law, and the Enugu State Ranch Management Law.
He assured investors of a secure and enabling environment for their ventures, stating, “Enugu State is the most secure and peaceful state in the country. We have derisked investment flow through flexible land policies and strengthened our security architecture to ensure sustainable growth.”
Mbah urged both local and international investors to see Enugu as a prime investment destination with high returns.
Ogbonna Promises Transformative Leadership for NITP
Dr. Chime Ogbonna, in his inaugural address as NITP President, pledged transformative leadership focused on sustainable urban development across Nigeria. Drawing from his extensive experience within the institute, he committed to driving the full implementation of the 1992 Urban and Regional Planning Law, which he described as essential for tackling the nation’s environmental challenges.
Ogbonna highlighted the importance of comprehensive urban and regional planning frameworks to guide Nigeria’s physical development, advocating for increased government awareness of planned settlements.
Expressing concern over the declining enrollment in urban and regional planning programs, he called for more employment opportunities for graduates in the sector.
He also commended the Tinubu administration for establishing the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development and appointing Architect Ahmed Dangiwa as its minister. Ogbonna described these developments as a positive shift for urban and regional planning in Nigeria.
The event attracted dignitaries from various sectors, marking a milestone in advancing urban planning and fostering collaboration for a better-planned Nigeria.
