Nigerian Institute of Town Planners Press Statement on Corona Virus (COVID-19)

Nigeria like many countries in the world is affected by the outbreak of Corona Virus (COVID-19) pandemic.

As at Monday 23rd March 2020, there are 40 confirmed cases, 2 have been discharged and I death recorded. However, there are indication that the numbers may rise in the coming days. The Federal and State Governments have taken measures to curtail the spread such as travel ban, closing down schools, placing restrictions on Public gathering etc. The Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) therefore issues the following statement in respect of the COVID-19 outbreak.

1. The Institute supports Government decisions and strategies to curtail the spread of the pandemic and advise the public to comply with these directives in the interest of public health and safety.

2. The Institute notes that in situations of this nature, the most vulnerable group to be hit hardest are the urban poor living in informal settlements and slums in cities with high population density and absence of basic amenities such as water and sanitation. Therefore, these areas should be given adequate attention.

3. The Institute advocates that the Rural areas which hold a considerable number of the country's population (about 45%) should not be neglected in the various plans put in place to combat this pandemic.

4. The Institute calls on Government at all levels to provide timely support and services that will prevent the spread of Corona Virus in Nigeria.

5. Moving forward the Institute advises that Government on its part should as a matter of urgency demonstrate commitment to the implementation of Town Planning Laws, regulations and space standards especially in relation to housing and provision of utilities and amenities, as a means of preventing the spread of diseases.

6. The Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) reiterates it's commitment to partner with Government at all levels to ensure adherence to URBAN PLANNING LAWS AND MANAGEMENT principles of our human settlements that will ensure public health and safety which is a cardinal objective of our profession.

7. The Institute acknowledges and praises all those who are working tirelessly to contain the spread of Corona Virus in Nigeria.

8. Finally, the National President of the Institute, TPL. Lekwa Ezutah FNITP, FhF, wishes to announce the suspension of activities at the National Secretariat and events earlier scheduled to hold in April until further notice. Specifically the MCPDP scheduled for 1-2 April, and Extraordinary General meeting scheduled for 29th April.

God bless you all and God bless Nigeria.