Nigeria urged to build new towns

Nigeria needs to proactively develop new towns to manage rapid urbanization and promote socio-economic progress, according to Prof. Franklin Nnaemeka Ngwu, Director of Public Sector Initiative and Professor of Strategic Management & Governance at Lagos Business School. Speaking at UPDC Plc’s 4th Annual Real Estate Summit in Lagos, Prof. Ngwu emphasized that new towns could […]

Nigeria needs to proactively develop new towns to manage rapid urbanization and promote socio-economic progress, according to Prof. Franklin Nnaemeka Ngwu, Director of Public Sector Initiative and Professor of Strategic Management & Governance at Lagos Business School.

Speaking at UPDC Plc’s 4th Annual Real Estate Summit in Lagos, Prof. Ngwu emphasized that new towns could help prevent the chaos associated with growing populations in major cities while fostering integrated, sustainable communities.

In his keynote address, Ngwu defined new towns as more than just urban expansion or suburban development. Rather, they are self-sufficient communities that include housing, employment, commerce, industry, and leisure facilities, all designed to relieve the pressure on overpopulated urban areas.

He cited the example of Milton Keynes in the UK, where careful urban planning creates a more organized and relaxed environment compared to the chaotic pace of larger cities like London.

Ngwu stressed that the Nigerian government has a crucial role in the development of these new towns, as proper planning and support are necessary to ensure they are truly sustainable and integrated.

Ngwu’s call for new towns comes at a time when Nigeria’s population is expected to reach 180 million urban dwellers by 2050. This growth will place immense pressure on existing cities, particularly Lagos.

Ngwu argued that developing new towns will help address this looming challenge by providing alternative spaces for growth, while also fostering economic and infrastructure development across the country.

In his opening remarks, UPDC Plc’s Managing Director, Odunayo Ojo, reflected on the timely opportunity to shape the future of Nigeria’s urban spaces, where well-planned new towns could become catalysts for economic growth, social inclusion, and improved living standards.