ACTDA, ECTDA Hold Peer Review Session to Enhance Urban Planning, Regional Development

By Ukpa Ewa

Development Control Unit of Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA) and their counterparts in Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA), on Tuesday engaged in a peer review session as part of strategic move to enhance urban planning and regional integration.

The one day interactive session, led by Town Planner, Charles Ekwunife of ACTDA, AnambraDaily gathered, aimed to align development strategies in line with Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo’s Prosperous Homeland agenda.

Receiving the delegation at his office in Enugu North, the Executive Chairman of ECTDA, Barr. Uche Anya, outlined the statutory framework of the agency, which was established under Governor Sullivan Chime administration in 2009.

He highlighted the significance of the metropolitan areas of Enugu North, Enugu South and Enugu East which contribute to 70 percent of the state’s economy.

Speaking further, Barr. Anya emphasized the need for stronger collaboration among capital development agencies in the Southeast, proposing the creation of a dedicated communication platform for agency leaders, including WhatsApp groups, to facilitate discussions.

He further advocated for regional development projects such as ring roads and railway links between Enugu and Awka, which could drive economic integration and improve transportation across Igbo land.

Commending Anambra State urban planning initiatives, Barr. Anya noted the increasing connectivity of cities within the state.

During the visit, ACTDA officials toured key ECTDA departments, including those responsible for development control, health, town planning, and transport, to gain insights into best practices for city planning and governance.