By Milcah Tanimu

The Nigerian Institute of Town Planners has urged governments at all levels to provide opportunities for women town planners to assume leadership positions within ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs).

Nathaniel Atebije, the institute’s national president, emphasized this during the investiture of the national chairman of the Association of Women Town Planners in Nigeria in Abuja.

Atebije highlighted the leadership capabilities of women town planners, stressing that they deserve recognition and opportunities for advancement in governance roles. He noted the scarcity of women in leadership positions within planning institutions, both at the federal and state levels, despite their considerable expertise and experience.

He urged government agencies and international organizations to collaborate with women in community intervention programs to foster a more sustainable environment, leveraging women’s humanitarian and benevolent nature.

Additionally, Atebije called on communities to engage town planners, particularly women, in the physical planning of settlements to enhance livability.

In her inaugural address, Rekiyat Fache, Chair of AWTPN, pledged to collaborate with relevant government agencies and stakeholders to advance the association’s goals and contribute to national development. She emphasized the association’s focus on slum upgrading and addressing climate change challenges through practical solutions like tree planting and sanitation initiatives.