By Nasiru Mohammed, Yola
In its efforts to strengthen professional standards and enhance capacity among its members, the Northern Town Planners Forum has commenced an advocacy visit across Northern Nigerian states, starting with Adamawa State.
The visit included engagements with Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in the state on Monday, December 8, 2025.
The Northern Town Planners Forum is a regional arm of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP), comprising professionals from the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The delegation was received in Adamawa by the Commissioner for Land and Survey, Chief Joab Sahma, who represented Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri.
Speaking during the visit, the Chairman of the Forum, TPL Sajoh H. Moda, said the advocacy was aimed at informing the governor of the mission and vision of the Forum and seeking collaboration with the state government in town planning, as well as support for its members where possible.
She noted that the Forum is committed to the advancement and promotion of town planning practice across the 19 Northern states.
TPL Moda expressed optimism about the Forum’s engagement with Adamawa State, citing the remarkable achievements recorded under the leadership of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, which she said have changed the development narrative of the state.
“The Forum is proud to be associated with the remarkable achievements recorded under your visionary administration, achievements which have undoubtedly ushered in a new Adamawa,” she said.
She congratulated Governor Fintiri on receiving another Award of Excellence in Public Service and commended his bold and strategic interventions in infrastructural development and institutional reforms across the state.
“We are aware that this is the third time His Excellency has received an award in the area of urban renewal and infrastructure, efforts which continue to strengthen his reputation as a master planner of the state,” TPL Moda explained.
She further acknowledged the Adamawa State Government’s commitment to responsible, sustainable, and modern planning practices, while appealing to the government and relevant MDAs to extend maximum support to the Forum.
In his response, the Commissioner for Land and Survey, Chief Joab Sahma, expressed delight over the visit, noting that it would further strengthen partnership between the Forum and the state government.
He explained that the present administration is working tirelessly to designate new urban areas to enable the government develop well-planned towns. The commissioner also disclosed that plans are underway to review the Yola Master Plan to enhance development in line with global best practices.
“We are making every effort to review the Yola master plan to ensure a conducive and sustainable environment for development,” he said.
Chief Sahma assured the delegation of the state government’s continuous support.
During a visit to the Urban and Regional Planning Board (URPB) Adamawa, the Forum Chairman, TPL Sajoh H. Moda, expressed concern over the inactivity of some members, particularly in participating in NITP activities and payment of dues. She encouraged members to redouble their efforts to advance the profession to greater heights.
Commenting, the General Manager of the Urban and Regional Planning Board, TPL Kalang Stephen Audu, said the Board, in collaboration with relevant agencies, is working to upgrade the planning laws for the betterment of society.
The Northern Town Planners Forum also paid an advocacy visit to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, where the delegation was received by the Permanent Secretary, Aminu Hamman Bello, for the same purpose.
The General Manager of URPB conducted the delegation around the Board to inspect new equipment introduced for electronic building plan registration by members of the public.
Speaking during the visit, the Chairman of NITP Adamawa State Chapter, TPL Akila H. Sunnag, emphasized the need for continuous training and retraining of town planning professionals to enable them discharge their duties effectively.
Sahel Reporters News
