Town planners have called for a renewed approach to regional development in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), stressing the need for inclusive and sustainable planning of Abuja’s satellite towns.
The call was made yesterday during the 2025 Town Planners Day organised by the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP), FCT Chapter, held in Abuja.
Speaking at the event, the Chairman of NITP FCT Chapter, Tpl. Queen I. Phillips, described the theme, “Regional Development in the FCT: Rethinking Public Sector-led Development of Abuja Satellite Towns,” as both timely and necessary.
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“The Abuja Master Plan envisioned a balanced pattern of growth, with satellite towns playing a complementary role to the Federal Capital City,” she said.
“However, the realities today reveal significant disparities. Many of the satellite towns still grapple with inadequate infrastructure, poor service delivery, and weak governance systems.”
Tpl. Phillips commended recent reforms by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), including land administration policies and infrastructure expansion aimed at bridging the urban-rural divide.
She noted that the ongoing review of the Abuja Master Plan is a “significant step towards producing a forward-looking framework that integrates regional development strategies with sustainability and resilience.”
The event featured presentations by experts including Tpl. Dr. Yakubu Bununu, who delivered the lead paper, and Tpl. Dr. Daniel Adamu and Tpl. Timeyin Uwejamomore FNITP, who spoke on spatial planning and infrastructure redesign.
“Town Planners Day has always served as a platform for reflection, dialogue, and policy advocacy.
“This year, I urge us to go beyond diagnosing challenges and focus on developing practical, actionable solutions that can transform Abuja’s satellite towns into vibrant, resilient, and inclusive urban centres.”
The event drew participation from government officials, development partners, and planning professionals, all united in their commitment to shaping the future of the FCT through strategic urban planning.