The Nigerian Institute of Town Planners, NITP and the Town Planners Registration Council, TOPREC have intensified efforts to modernise urban planning practice in Nigeria through digital technology adoption.
This was the focus of the 27th Mandatory Continuing Professional Development Programme (MCPDP), held across Kaduna, Ado-Ekiti and Abakaliki, with about 1,400 participants in attendance.
Speaking at the programme, the National President of NITP, Dr. Ogbonna Chime, said the global shift toward digital transformation has made it necessary for Nigeria’s planning profession to fully embrace emerging technologies.
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He noted that urban planning is now increasingly driven by digital systems, adding that the profession must adapt to remain relevant.
Similarly, the President of TOPREC, Mohammed Ango, said “Nigeria’s rapidly expanding urban environment can no longer be effectively managed with traditional planning methods alone,” stressing the need for a full transition to digital solutions.
AI, geo-design and e-governance
At the Abakaliki opening ceremony on June 10, 2026, the Chairman of MCPDP, Dr. Osunsanmi Gbolabo, said the training was designed to expose participants to modern tools in spatial planning, including artificial intelligence, geo-design and digital reporting systems.
He said the theme, “Application of Digital Technology for Enhanced Physical Planning Services in Nigeria,” reflects the urgency of adopting modern planning frameworks.
“We are here to be equipped, and we are here to be transformed,” he said.
Experts highlight key innovations
Guest speakers at the programme explored different aspects of digital transformation in planning.
Professor Muyiwa Agunbiade spoke on land use classification as a foundation for digital planning systems, while Benson Diriyal discussed e-governance and the digitisation of planning approvals, and Mr. Maitho Kaltho examined the use of artificial intelligence in geo-design and planning reports.
Call for practical application
Participants expressed optimism that the shift toward digital planning would improve urban management, strengthen security planning, boost government revenue, and support sustainable infrastructure development.
At the closing session on June 11, 2026, Dr. Gbolabo urged participants to apply the knowledge gained in their workplaces.
He encouraged planners to adopt digital tools in government agencies, consultancy practice, and academic institutions, while also strengthening professional collaboration.
The MCPDP organisers said the programme is part of ongoing efforts to reposition Nigeria’s urban planning sector for modern development challenges.
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