By David Ndife
The Anambra State Government has intensified its urban renewal programme in Nnewi, reaffirming its commitment to eliminating shanties and unauthorized structures across the commercial city.
The initiative, led by Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo through the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, is aimed at restoring order, enhancing environmental sustainability, and promoting planned urban growth.
Speaking during a second phase of sensitization and enforcement exercise in Nnewi, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Barr. Chijioke Ojukwu, emphasized that the ongoing exercise is part of the government’s broader urban regeneration agenda.
He disclosed that the programme, tagged “Operation Show Your Physical Planning Permit,” seeks to enforce compliance with approved planning regulations and reclaim encroached public spaces.
Ojukwu reiterated that the two-week ultimatum earlier issued to owners of illegal structures and shanties remains valid, stressing that no extension will be granted after the deadline expires.
According to him, the directive reflects Governor Soludo’s resolve to build a modern, livable, and investment-friendly Anambra State anchored on strict physical planning standards.
The Commissioner noted that illegal developments have contributed significantly to flooding, traffic congestion, insecurity, and environmental degradation in major urban centres, including Nnewi.
He urged affected property owners to take the notices seriously, assuring that all enforcement actions would be carried out in accordance with the law once the grace period lapses.
During the exercise, officials marked illegal structures and issued removal notices across key locations in Nnewi, including Nkwo Market, Akamili, Uruagu, NAUTH Permanent Site axis, and Eme Court Road.
Barr. Ojukwu further assured residents that “Operation Zero Shanties” would be sustained to curb encroachment and unsafe developments, while urging public support for a cleaner and safer urban environment.
