By Our Reporter
The Anambra State Government has issued demolition notices to more than 500 owners and occupiers of illegal, dilapidated and unsafe structures in Nnewi as part of an urban renewal programme aimed at transforming the commercial city.
The exercise, being implemented by the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, marks the first phase of a broader regeneration initiative designed to improve infrastructure, restore order and reposition Nnewi as a modern industrial and commercial hub.
Affected properties include shanties erected beneath high-tension electricity lines, buildings constructed without approved setbacks, unapproved developments, petrol stations and hotels.
The demolition notice was also served to owners structures considered hazardous to public safety or in violation of planning regulations.
The affected locations include the Nnewi Triangle axis, Hundred Foot Road, Post Office area, Anaedo Road, Igwe Orizu Road, Ezemewi Road, Nkwo axis, sections of the Nnewi–Owerri Road corridor, and other major road networks in Otolo, Umudim and Uruagu.
The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mr. Chijioke Oseloka Ojukwu, said during enforcement exercise that the action was in line with Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s vision of creating a cleaner, safer and more organised urban environment.
According to Ojukwu, the exercise is intended to support the comprehensive regeneration of Nnewi and strengthen its position as one of Nigeria’s leading industrial and commercial centres.
He said the notices also serve as a warning to owners of structures obstructing the right-of-way of the newly dualised Nnewi–Owerri Road and other areas earmarked for redevelopment under the state’s urban transformation programme.
The commissioner disclosed that affected property owners have been given a two-week ultimatum to comply with the notices before demolition and other enforcement measures begin.
Ojukwu said the urban renewal programme would facilitate the completion of the long-abandoned Nnewi Triangle Mall and support the development of modern transport terminals, recreational facilities and other public infrastructure aimed at boosting economic activities and improving urban mobility.
He noted that the initiative followed Governor Soludo’s recent inspection tour of Nnewi and forms part of wider efforts by the state government to reclaim abandoned public assets, address infrastructure deficits and eliminate urban blight.
Acknowledging that the exercise may cause temporary inconvenience, Ojukwu urged residents and business owners to cooperate with the government.
He assured them that physical planning laws would be enforced fairly and in accordance with established regulations.
He restated the commitment of the state government to the creation og a safer, more functional and economically vibrant urban environment for residents and businesses in Nnewi.
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