LEGAL, POLICY AND CONSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR URBAN PLANNING IN NIGERIA

Abstract

This paper is an attempt to examine the laws, policy and constitutional provisions as regards urban planning in Nigeria. As such the paper adopted a historical analysis. The study essentially discussed the Nigerian physical planning laws from a historical perspective and contextual issues in urban planning and legislation. The analysis of Nigerian urban and regional planning laws revealed that the country has witnessed the promulgation of different land and urban planning laws for the achievement of lofty goals in urban and regional development. However, to build a sustainable structure of continuous development, there must be a regular review of a legal and policy framework for guiding, monitoring and control of urban development. The paper, therefore, advocates that for urban and regional planning laws to help achieve sustainable development and growth, the country must adopt an integrated or system approach to planning, administration and management. Federal laws enacted should promote integrated planning and ensure federal aid to states and local governments for the preservation of lands with vital economic and social values.

Keywords: Laws, policy, constitution, Urban planning, Nigeria