The Nigerian Institute of Town Planners, NITP, FCT Chapter, has warned that the Federal Capital Territory risks losing its green character to unplanned and unsustainable development.
The warning was issued by the Chairman of the NITP FCT Chapter, Queen Phillips, in her welcome address at the 2026 Annual Town Planners Day in Abuja.
Phillips said the gradual loss of Abuja’s green character, coupled with disregard for the provisions of the Abuja Master Plan, was placing increasing pressure on the territory’s environment and the quality of life of its residents.
Phillips also restated the institute’s commitment to ensuring that development and environmental protection progress together through planning that promotes sustainable growth, social inclusion and improved quality of life.
Delivering the keynote address, titled “From Garden City to Concrete Jungle: Planning Livable Communities,” Professor Laraba Rikko highlighted some of the challenges confronting the implementation of the Abuja Master Plan.
She called for a review of the plan to restore its original philosophy and preserve the character of the Federal Capital.
The annual event, which attracted representatives of government agencies, professional bodies, academia, the private sector, civil society and other stakeholders, was conceived in response to growing public concern over the disappearance of green areas and increasing non adherence to planning standards in the FCT.
