The Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) has conferred upon General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (rtd.), Katsina State Governor Malam Dikko Umar Radda, and Barrister Festus Adebayo, CEO of Fesadeb Media Group and Convener of the Africa International Housing Show with the title of Honorary Fellows of the NITP for their monumental achievements as exceptional leaders whose contributions have significantly shaped Nigeria’s urban and regional development.
The investiture ceremony which took place during the commencement of the prestigious 2024 Annual Conference and General Meeting at the Amadeo Event Centre in Enugu, brought together distinguished professionals from across Nigeria to celebrate the contributions of these honorees to urban planning and sustainable development.
In his address, the Chairman of the College of Fellows, Sir Donatus C. Obialo, emphasized the importance of the Fellows’ role in upholding the integrity of the Institute. He remarked, “Fellowship of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners is not only an honor and title but also a responsibility… Your conduct from now on will be an excellent confirmation of this honor and award.” Sir Obialo further urged the new Fellows to lead by example, noting that “Nothing must be done that will tarnish the image of the Institute or the planning profession.”
Similarly, the National President of the NITP, Tpl. Nathaniel M. Atebije charged the new Fellows with maintaining high ethical standards in both their professional and personal lives. He stated, “Being elected into the Fellowship of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners is not just an honor but a profound responsibility… This title brings an obligation that goes beyond professional competence; it calls for a life of integrity, wisdom, and ethical conduct.” He further highlighted the need for Fellows to serve as the moral compass of the Institute, adding, “I charge you to tune up your conscience.”
General Theophilus Danjuma was recognized for his ongoing commitment to environmental conservation and urban development, particularly through his greening initiatives in Abuja. By spearheading projects aimed at combating deforestation, reducing urban heat, and improving air quality, Danjuma has significantly enhanced the city’s green spaces, leading to a more sustainable and aesthetically pleasing environment. His commitment to public education through workshops and seminars on environmental issues further highlighted his dedication to fostering a greener Nigeria.
Governor Dikko Umar Radda’s visionary leadership in urban and regional planning during his first year in office made him a standout candidate for the Honorary Fellowship. His administration has appointed four physical planners to key state roles, revitalized the Katsina State Urban Development Board with N1 billion worth of equipment, and initiated extensive urban renewal projects, with a N74 billion budget dedicated to the expansion of urban roads. His work has reshaped the physical planning landscape in Katsina, positioning the state as a leader in urban and regional planning in Northern Nigeria.
In his remarks after receiving the award, Governor Dikko Umar Radda expressed his gratitude to the NITP for recognizing the efforts being made in Katsina State. “We thank the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners for recognizing the efforts we are making in our state. I also thank Almighty Allah for making this possible. This will inspire and give us the courage to achieve more, particularly in tackling issues like flooding that could be mitigated with proper urban planning. This award, given by such a professional and esteemed body, holds great value for us, and it encourages us to continue developing and planning our state,” he stated.
Barrister Festus Adebayo’s influence as the CEO of Fesadeb Media Group and his two-decade dedication to promoting urban and regional planning through his global brand, the Africa International Housing Show, and the media were also acknowledged. Adebayo, who has been a steadfast supporter of the NITP, has used platforms like Housing TV Africa to spotlight critical planning issues. His instrumental role in the success of the 2023 National Conference in Asaba and his consistent efforts to provide media exposure to urban planning discussions reflect his deep commitment to the profession.
Adebayo, upon receiving the Honorary Fellowship, expressed surprise and appreciation for the recognition. “The notice for this honorary fellowship came to me as a surprise. I see it as a call to do more in promoting town planning and urban development, which are integral to Nigeria’s housing and construction leadership. I am deeply honored and want to thank the President, the Council of Fellows, and everyone who made this possible. This award has charged me to contribute more to the development of the sector, and I intend to do just that,” he said.
In addition to recognizing new Fellows, the NITP also celebrated honorary members who have been recognized for their immense contributions to the built environment and urban planning in Nigeria. These individuals have not only excelled in their respective fields but have also significantly impacted the housing and real estate sectors. Honorees include Flora Anne, Executive Director of the Africa International Housing Show and Housing TV Africa, Prince Sam Ogrih, the MD/CEO of Delta Mega Trend Nigeria Limited, the developers of the prestigious Plantation City in Warri, Professor Onipe Adabenege Yahaya, an Accountant, Financial Analyst and Speaker, Arc. Dr. Sa’id Alkali Kori, a notable Nigerian architect and Group CEO of Thiinklab Group, and Bassey Bassey, a trained marine and environmental geologist and Executive Director of HipCity Innovation Centre.
Tpl. Lami Ayuba, the Abuja Chapter Chairman of NITP among other distinguished professionals were also elected as fellows into the institute’s college of fellowship.
Tpl. Isyaku Mukhtar Kura, President of the Town Planners Registration Council of Nigeria who delivered a goodwill message congratulated the new inductees, expressing hope that their elevation would inspire future generations and raise the standards of town planning across the nation.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Investiture Planning Committee, Tpl. Barnabas Atiyaye commended the Fellows of 2024 for overcoming economic challenges to attain their prestigious status. He urged the new Fellows to embrace their roles as mentors and leaders within the profession, emphasizing the need for continuous learning, research, and collaboration to ensure that town planners in Nigeria maintain relevance and high professional standards.
Top dignitaries who graced the occasion included Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State represented by the Deputy Governor of Enugu State, Barrister Ifeanyi Ossai, among others.
With visionary leaders like Danjuma, Radda, and Adebayo now recognized as Honourary Fellows, the profession looks poised to continue advancing the nation’s physical planning agenda and creating sustainable urban spaces that will benefit generations to come.