NITP, UK’s RTPI seal strategic pact to tackle urban and regional planning challenges

By Benedicta Aboh

The Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) and the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), United Kingdom, have formalised a strategic partnership with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening professional collaboration and addressing emerging urban and regional planning challenges.

The MoU, signed on January 15, 2026, marks a significant milestone in the long-standing relationship between the two professional bodies, which play key roles in shaping planning practice within and beyond their respective jurisdictions, according to a statement by the National Public Relations Secretary of the NITP, Dr. Chiahemba Nor.

Under the agreement, both institutes will promote the exchange of ideas, skills and expertise to tackle complex planning issues facing towns and cities, particularly those arising from rapid urbanisation, climate change and sustainability concerns.

The partnership also provides for mutual visits and participation in each other’s programmes, conferences and professional events.

This is expected to enhance learning opportunities, professional exposure and cross-cultural understanding among members of both organisations.

Another major component of the MoU is the creation of awareness on pathways to professional membership in both institutes, enabling planners to better understand opportunities for career advancement and professional recognition across borders.

The agreement further covers the sharing of information on continuing professional development (CPD) frameworks, standards and best practices, with a view to strengthening professional competence and upholding high ethical and technical standards in planning practice.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, the President of the RTPI, Tpl Helen Fadipe, MBE, highlighted the importance of international cooperation in responding to global development challenges.

“International collaboration and partnership remain a powerful and positive force for advancing sustainable development globally,” she said, adding that shared learning and collective action are essential in addressing complex urban issues.

In his remarks, the President of the NITP, Tpl Dr. Ogbonna Chime, described the MoU as timely and strategic for the planning profession in Nigeria, expressing appreciation to the RTPI for the partnership.

“This collaboration will expose our young planners to global best practices, enrich their knowledge base and help raise professional standards through the exchange of ideas, practice and experience,” Dr. Chime said.

He added that the agreement builds on the already strong relationship between the two institutions and reflects a renewed commitment to promoting excellence, innovation and sustainability in planning practice across borders.

Both NITP and RTPI have a history of collaboration through their membership of the Commonwealth Association of Planners (CAP), a platform that has facilitated dialogue, knowledge sharing and capacity building among planners across the Commonwealth.