By Alufo Bonaventure
The Anambra State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development has intensified the enforcement of physical planning laws as part of ongoing efforts to promote orderly urban development and eliminate illegal structures across the state.
The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Barr. Chijioke Ojukwu, said the ministry is implementing initiatives such as Operation Zero Shanties and Operation Show Your Building Permit to ensure compliance with building regulations and approved development plans.
According to the commissioner, the enforcement exercise targets illegal structures in major urban centres, including Awka, Onitsha and Nnewi, while owners of commercial buildings, plazas and markets are required to present evidence of approved building plans for verification.
He said property owners who fail to comply with the stipulated requirements after due notice risk enforcement actions in line with the provisions of the state’s physical planning laws, adding that the exercise is aimed at safeguarding lives, protecting public infrastructure and preventing indiscriminate development.
Barr. Ojukwu explained that, beyond enforcement, the ministry is pursuing reforms focused on proper zoning, recovery of road setbacks and the protection of drainage channels in line with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s urban regeneration agenda.
He noted that the reforms are expected to reduce flooding, improve traffic flow, enhance public safety and create a more attractive environment for investment and sustainable development across the state.
The commissioner reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to enforcing physical planning regulations professionally and fairly, urging property owners and developers to obtain the necessary approvals before embarking on construction projects to support the government’s vision of building cleaner, safer and more organised cities in Anambra State.
Alufo Bonaventure is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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