Federal Executive Council Approves Revised National Urban Development Policy to Transform Nigeria’s Urban Future
On June 3, 2025, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved a revised National Urban Development Policy (NUDP), marking a significant step towards sustainable urbanization in Nigeria. This policy, developed by the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development in collaboration with UN-Habitat and other stakeholders, replaces the previous 2012 edition. It aims to provide a transformative framework guiding urban planning, development, and governance across the country over the next decade.
The revised NUDP aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Nigeria’s commitments under international frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the New Urban Agenda, the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, and the African Union Agenda 2063. With projections indicating that over 70% of Nigeria’s population will reside in urban areas by 2050, the policy addresses the urgent need for integrated urban development strategies.
Key features of the policy include:
Strengthening Urban Governance: The policy advocates for the creation of metropolitan commissions and regional planning bodies to manage Nigeria’s rapidly growing urban regions, promoting coherent city systems and improved intergovernmental coordination.
Adoption of the 15-Minute City Model: Emphasizing accessibility, the policy introduces the 15-minute city concept, aiming to ensure that residents can access essential services within a 15-minute walk or cycle from their homes.
Inclusive and Evidence-Based Planning: The NUDP promotes proactive, inclusive, and long-term strategies, recognizing the importance of strong institutions, strategic leadership, and citizen participation in effective urban development.
The policy’s vision is to transform Nigeria’s cities into well-functioning, prosperous, resilient, secure, and livable spaces for all. It calls for a “business unusual” approach, replacing fragmented and reactive planning with integrated and evidence-based urban policies.
Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, described the NUDP as a critical milestone in Nigeria’s urban journey, emphasizing its alignment with national and global development goals.
The Federal Government urges state and local governments, as well as communities, to adhere strictly to the guidelines set forth in the revised policy to ensure its successful implementation and to foster sustainable urban growth across Nigeria.
