Why Is Town Planning So Weak in Many Nigerian States?

As an architect who has worked on building designs in different states, I have noticed that functional town-planning authorities seem limited to Lagos, Abuja and a few cities such as Port Harcourt, Owerri and Ibadan. Although states are expected to enforce zoning and building regulations, many areas appear to have little oversight. Plans may be approved without proper scrutiny, or construction may proceed without approval. Land use, building density, access roads and site suitability are often overlooked. The consequences are visible in poorly organised neighbourhoods, inadequate setbacks and buildings erected in unsuitable locations. Why do many states neglect planning enforcement? Is it a shortage of funding and qualified staff, or weak political will until a collapse or disaster occurs? Does anyone know how accessible and effective the town-planning authority is in their area?

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