By Linus Egba
In a bid to sustain the rapid development of Abakaliki, the Ebonyi state capital, town planning and urban master planning have become crucial to achieving a well-structured and conducive environment for its residents.
Speaking on the expectations for Abakaliki as one of the fastest-growing cities in Nigeria, Dr. Emmanuel Nwafor, National Secretary of the College of Fellows, Nigeria Institute of Town Planners, emphasized the need for leaders to prioritize the ethics of urban development.
He stressed that a balanced approach, which takes into account the social, economic, environmental, and cultural needs of the people, is essential for creating a harmonious urbanization process.
Dr. Nwafor, a retired permanent secretary of the Ebonyi State Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, outlined the key components of an effective urban policy, which include land use planning, transport planning, architectural design, and infrastructural planning.
He noted that these elements should be at the forefront of any urban development strategy, alongside essential services such as water, sanitation, energy, and communication services.
Economic development and environmental sustainability, coupled with social and community development, are equally vital in the planning process, according to the expert.
While commending Governor Francis Nwifuru’s political will to tackle some of the developmental challenges that had plagued the state capital before his administration, Dr. Nwafor praised the governor’s focus on road construction projects aimed at linking Abakaliki with smaller urban areas across the state. This, he believes, will further boost regional development.
However, Dr. Nwafor raised concerns regarding the ongoing construction of the ultra-modern Olympic stadium in Abakaliki. He advocated for a reassessment of the stadium’s location, citing its proximity to the government seat and Nkwegu military barracks.
According to him, moving the stadium a few kilometers outside the city would spur development in those areas, promoting a more balanced growth across the state.
Dr. Nwafor also urged Governor Nwifuru to consider urban renewal methodologies to enhance the aesthetics of residential areas in the capital. He applauded the governor for the ongoing construction of housing estates in Ameze Ezzillo and Izzo Ezza Ezzillo autonomous communities, which are designed to resettle victims of the communal clashes in Ishielu Local Government Area.
Furthermore, the urban planning expert called on the state government to consistently engage professionals in all areas of development to ensure more effective and sustainable outcomes in its administrative goals.