The Nathaniel Atebije Foundation for Planning Advocacy (NAFPA) has called for urgent national attention to the growing crisis in urban and regional planning across Nigeria, warning that continued neglect could undermine sustainability, safety, and human dignity.

The foundation’s founder, Nathaniel Atebije, made the call during a news conference ahead of its maiden annual lecture held on Tuesday in Abuja.

‘Planning Is Not a Luxury’

Atebije stressed that urban and physical planning is essential for sustainable growth, cautioning that its neglect has already led to disorder in many Nigerian cities.

“When planning is ignored, cities become disordered, unsafe, inefficient and unjust. Unfortunately, this trajectory is the experience across many parts of Nigeria today,” he said.

Key Challenges Identified

He listed major challenges affecting urban development, including weak enforcement of planning regulations, widespread land-use violations, and the marginalisation of indigenous planning professionals.

Other concerns include the destruction of green areas in Abuja and inadequate infrastructure across urban centres.

According to him, many settlements continue to expand without approved layouts, resulting in chaotic growth patterns that are costly and difficult to correct.

He added that even in cities with master plans, implementation remains weak due to poor funding, limited manpower, and lack of political will.

Rising Threat to Abuja Master Plan

Atebije warned of increasing development on restricted lands such as floodplains and designated green areas, often driven by profit motives and political interference.

He noted that this trend is gradually eroding the Abuja Master Plan, which was originally designed to balance development with environmental sustainability.

“The destruction of designated green spaces in the capital city is particularly alarming, raising serious concerns about environmental sustainability and urban livability,” he said.

Implications for Urban Living

He said the consequences of poor planning are already visible, including declining living standards, rising environmental risks, housing shortages, and reduced economic productivity.

Call for Immediate Reforms

The foundation called for decisive action from government and stakeholders, including strict enforcement of planning laws and restoration of violated green areas.

Atebije urged authorities to prioritise planning as a prerequisite for development and to make physical development plans legally binding.

He also recommended strengthening development control through recruitment and training of qualified personnel, alongside adequate funding for enforcement agencies.

“Planning authorities must be protected from political interference, with enforcement of sanctions against violations,” he said.

Push for Institutional Strengthening

The foundation further called for better coordination among planning institutions and the promotion of indigenous professionals in line with existing policy frameworks.

It also advocated the establishment of a National Urban and Regional Planning Commission and the Office of the Town Planner General of the Federation to improve oversight and ensure compliance with planning standards.

Outlook

Atebije emphasised that Nigeria stands at a critical point in its urban development journey, warning that failure to act could deepen existing challenges.

He called on government, private developers, and stakeholders to collaborate in restoring order, sustainability, and dignity in the country’s built environment.

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The grand event was not only a celebration of life but a tribute to a legacy defined by visionary leadership, professional excellence, and a lifetime of service to Nigeria’s urban planning sector.

As the immediate past President of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP), Atebije’s influence continues to shape conversations and policy directions in sustainable development.

The Chairman of the occasion, John Abuh, set the tone with a passionate address reflecting on Nigeria’s infrastructural gaps and the leadership missteps that have plagued urban development. His remarks were not only a call to reflection but also a reverent nod to Atebije’s consistent commitment to order, vision, and ethics in the planning profession.

On his part, Festus Adebayo, Chairman of the Planning Committee and Convener of the Africa International Housing Show, welcomed guests with a heartfelt tribute to the celebrant. “Tpl. Atebije is a rare gem who has used his voice and expertise to reshape the direction of urban planning in Nigeria,” Adebayo noted, emphasizing that the celebration was also a defining moment for planning advocacy.

Delivering a powerful address during the event, the Vice Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University, Prof. Adamu Ahmed, challenged urban planners to embrace their spiritual duty as custodians of the environment. “We are caretakers, not owners. Planning must be rooted in fairness, human dignity, and justice, not just efficiency,” he urged.

Dr. Ogbonna Chime, current NITP President, lauded Atebije’s enduring contributions and advocated strongly for the implementation of the Urban and Regional Planning Law, describing it as “non-negotiable for Nigeria’s future.”

Prince Akintoye Adeoye, President of the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN), joined in the praises, reminding the audience that “housing is a fundamental human right,” and credited Atebije’s leadership for advancing the synergy between town planning and real estate development.

The celebrant himself, overwhelmed by the honor, called for renewed dedication to planning values that prioritize long-term sustainability over political expediency. “Planning must be guided by integrity and responsibility. We must think of future generations,” Atebije stated.

Other tributes came in from high-level figures including past presidents of the NITP, the Chairman of the NITP FCT chapter among others.

The highlight of the event was the ceremonial cutting of the birthday cake by Atebije and his wife, followed by the official launch of the Nathaniel Atebije Foundation for Planning Advocacy, a new initiative set to redefine the future of urban planning and development in Nigeria.

Tpl. Atebije’s 70th birthday was not just a celebration, it was a festival of excellence, gratitude, and purpose. It left the audience inspired to uphold the principles that have defined his extraordinary journey in urban planning.

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Nathaniel Atebije’s career is a testament to unwavering dedication and expertise in the field of urban planning. His journey began at Kaduna Polytechnic, where he laid the foundation for his professional life by obtaining a Post Graduate Diploma in Urban and Regional Planning. Driven by a passion for environmental sustainability, he furthered his education, earning a Master of Environmental Planning and Protection from the University of Abuja.

Atebije’s multifaceted career spanned academia, consultancy, and public service. He served as a lecturer, imparting his knowledge to future generations of town planners, and practiced as a consultant, contributing to numerous impactful projects.

His dedication to public service saw him rise through the ranks, demonstrating a commitment to shaping sustainable urban environments. Upon retirement, he returned to planning consultancy, continuing to contribute his expertise.

A Fellow of the NITP, Atebije has served the institute with distinction in various capacities, embodying a spirit of leadership and service. His roles as National President, National Secretary, and 2nd National Vice President attest to his unwavering commitment to advancing the profession and fostering excellence within the institute.

The establishment of the Urban Planning Foundation in his name is a fitting tribute to his enduring legacy. The foundation aims to promote excellence in urban planning, support research and education, and advocate for sustainable urban development practices.

It will serve as a platform to inspire and empower future generations of town planners, carrying forward Atebije’s vision for well-planned and thriving communities.

This initiative celebrates not just a milestone birthday, but a lifetime of dedication to shaping Nigeria’s urban landscape. The foundation will work to ensure that Atebije’s contributions continue to inspire and influence the field of urban planning for years to come.

The upcoming launch will be a moment to reflect on his remarkable career and to celebrate the lasting impact he has made on the nation.

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He made this appeal during the colourful 16th Induction Ceremony, which took place at the Amadeo Event Center, Enugu. The event, themed “Carve Your Personal Niche, Secure a Brighter Future,” marked a significant milestone for the newly admitted town planners.

Addressing the inductees, Atebije recounted his own experience of venturing into the field of town planning in the early days when it was a relatively unknown career path. He shared how, in March 1973, his school’s career counselor introduced him to the field due to his love for geography and mathematics, despite it being a “journey into the unknown” at the time.

“My counselor could not even tell me what the job schedule of a town planner entailed, and no one from my locality had ventured into that field,” Atebije recalled. He added that his decision to pursue town planning, despite the uncertainties, ultimately became a life-changing moment. Drawing parallels, he encouraged the inductees to embrace the field with passion and purpose, reminding them of the crucial role town planners play in creating sustainable and livable communities.

The NITP President emphasized the need for each inductee to establish a personal niche, defining it as the intersection of their interests, skills, values, and market needs. “A personal niche is essential in this profession to set yourself apart and build a successful career. It’s not just about finding your place, but about making a meaningful impact through your specialized knowledge,” he said.

Tpl. Atebije’s heartfelt speech concluded with a prayer for the new members, hoping that their certificates would serve as a key to their future success and a source of pride for their families and communities. “May the certificate we are giving you today be an instrument to wipe away your tears and put a smile on your face. As you create your niche, may your name be heard in many places,” he added.

The ceremony featured an Induction Lecture by Tpl. Mahfuza Adamu Abubakar, MNITP, One of the Winners of the Africa International Housing Show Youth Competition on Affrodable Housing Design and Acting Coordinator of the Young Planners’ Forum, FCT. Her lecture, titled “From Aspiration to Action,” was an insightful exploration of how ambition, coupled with dedication and innovation, can translate into meaningful contributions to urban development. Using a blend of humor and practical wisdom, Abubakar encouraged the new members to move beyond mere aspirations and take concrete steps towards actualizing their dreams.

“Dreams without actions are just dreams. You can aspire to cook a gourmet meal, but unless you roll up your sleeves and figure out the difference between ‘sauté’ and ‘burnt,’ you’re just standing in your kitchen holding a spatula,” she said, drawing laughter and applause from the audience. Abubakar highlighted the importance of passion, dedication, and innovation in transforming aspirations into impactful achievements.

The Chairman of the NITP Membership Committee, Tpl. Sani Daniel, FNITP, warmly welcomed the inductees, emphasizing that the Institute’s membership comes with privileges, responsibilities, and sanctions. He described town planning as a calling that goes beyond professional duties to encompass a mission of creating livable and resilient communities.

“As new members, you are expected to bring fresh perspectives and skills that will enrich our Institute and the practice of the profession,” Daniel remarked. He also urged the inductees to actively participate in NITP’s activities and contribute to the Institute’s mission of sustaining the Brighter Future Vision.

In a goodwill message, the President of the Town Planners Registration Council of Nigeria (TOPREC), Tpl. Isyaku Muhtar Kura, FNITP, congratulated the new members and the Institute for its commitment to nurturing the next generation of urban planners. He commended the NITP for its dedication to professional training and development, which, according to him, is crucial for addressing the complex challenges of Nigeria’s urban landscape.

“This induction is a vital step in strengthening the planning profession and ensuring the sustainable development of our cities and communities. I wish the new inductees every success in their careers and look forward to witnessing their contributions to shaping the future of Nigeria’s urban environment,” Kura stated.

Tpl. Adegboyega Tunde Temitayo, National Chairman of the Young Planners’ Forum, also delivered an inspiring speech, charging the inductees to uphold the ethics and standards of the profession. He described town planning as a calling that demands creativity and a commitment to creating sustainable environments. Temitayo urged the inductees to seek mentorship and collaboration in their professional journey.

“As young planners, we are the future of our industry. You have the unique opportunity to bridge the gap between theory and practice and provide innovative solutions to Nigeria’s urban challenges,” he remarked.

The 16th Induction Ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including the NITP Vice Presidents, past presidents of the Institute, the President of the Association of Town Planning Consultants of Nigeria (ATOPCON), and distinguished fellows of the Institute.

The vibrant ceremony was filled with a beautiful procession and camaraderie, reflecting the unity and shared vision of the NITP community. With the theme “Carve Your Personal Niche, Secure a Brighter Future,” the event left the newly inducted members inspired and motivated to leave their mark on the urban planning profession in Nigeria.

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With over 200 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa living in slums, the theme for this year’s celebration, “Engaging Youth to Create a Better Urban Future,” highlights the need to empower young people in the face of rapid urbanization.

Human settlement experts in Nigeria are using the occasion to advocate for policies and frameworks that will integrate youth into urban planning and development. Speaking on the theme, the President of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP), Mr. Nathaniel Atebije, noted that youth involvement is essential for ensuring the success of sustainable urban policies. He emphasized that the generational gap between older and younger populations must be bridged for effective knowledge transfer in creating better urban spaces.

Atebije explained, “Life on earth is a continuum, and one generation must pass knowledge, technology, and culture to the next. Sustainable development can only be achieved if there is meaningful interaction between these generations, allowing the youth to shape a better urban future.”

He stressed the importance of educating young people in urban planning, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), and sustainability. He urged for the creation of mentorship opportunities and youth-centered policies that would promote active participation in local governance, community-based projects, and decision-making processes.

Dr. Moses Ogunleye, past President of the Association of Town Planning Consultants of Nigeria (ATOPCON), reiterated the importance of youth leadership in urban issues such as environmental resource conservation, urban security, and climate change adaptation. He stated that the energy and innovative ideas of young people are vital resources that should be harnessed for the development of urban policies, regulations, and programs.

The NITP’s National Publicity Secretary, Dr. David Olawale, echoed these sentiments, urging for participatory development processes where young people can turn urban challenges into opportunities. He called for youth to be involved in urban renewal projects, saying their fresh perspectives are key to building resilient cities that can withstand global changes.

In a related message, UN Secretary-General António Guterres advocated for youth inclusion in decision-making processes, stating that young people are pivotal to creating a more equitable and sustainable future. “We must invest in education, digital skills, and youth-led initiatives on climate action, affordable housing, and sustainable mobility,” Guterres said.

With urban populations projected to increase by 2.5 billion by 2050, experts are calling for urgent action to engage young people in shaping a sustainable urban future. As WHD kicks off Urban October, it provides a platform for discussing innovative solutions and encouraging greater youth participation in building inclusive, resilient cities.

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