Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau State on Wednesday, March 9, 2022, expressed determination to enforce the state’s urban planning policy to improve the living conditions of residents.
Lalong made the pledge in Jos, the state capital, during a courtesy visit to him by a delegation of the Nigeria Institute of Town Planners (NITP) led by its president, Mr Olutoyin Ayinde.
He said his “Rescue Administration’’ placed lots of emphasis on planning and the development of infrastructure.
The governor said this was evidenced in the development of new infrastructure and the upgrading of existing ones, particularly in major towns and cities.
Lalong acknowledged the high level of unplanned developments in Plateau and the abuse of various plans by residents and said government would continue to enforce all town planning policies and regulations.
“We must ensure that public safety, orderliness and aesthetics are achieved for the good of the people,’’ he said.
The governor noted that Plateau is naturally endowed with good weather and aesthetics that could not be enjoyed in a chaotic situation where people built indiscriminately and without adherence to laid-down regulations.
He said government was set to flag off the construction of a new interchange at the British America Junction in Jos as part of its urban renewal plan to end traffic gridlocks in the area.
Lalong informed the town planners of the on-going enumeration of houses which would culminate into street naming and house numbering.
He solicited for the support and collaboration of the NITP in the actualisation of the development plans of the state.
Earlier, Ayinde said the absence of planning had caused serious problems in the society resulting in disruptions, congestion, diseases, insecurity and other challenges.
He noted that most cities and towns in Nigeria were not planned, causing huge challenges for the people.
The NITP president urged the governor to domesticate and implement the Urban and Regional Planning Act 2004, pledging the support and collaboration of the institute.
By Zainab Oyekan
