In a move to better plan cities and towns across the state, the Delta State Government has changed the name of its Ministry of Urban Renewal. It will now be known as the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Renewal.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori approved the new name to match the goals in the recently passed Delta State Physical Planning and Urban Renewal Law, 2024. This change shows the government’s serious commitment to making cities more organized, modern, and better for everyone to live in.
So why the name change? Before now, the ministry mainly focused on improving old or run-down areas (what we call urban renewal). But now, its job has expanded. The ministry will also be responsible for physical planning, which includes how land is used, how roads and buildings are laid out, and how new towns or communities are developed.
With the new name and law, the Ministry is now in charge of creating smarter, safer, and more liveable cities. This means better roads, proper drainage systems, organized housing, green spaces, and more thoughtful development — not just in big cities, but also in smaller towns across Delta State.
The Commissioner in charge of the Ministry, Engr. Michael Anoka, has been praised for his leadership. Under his guidance, the ministry has already started planning for a better future — one where city life is easier, cleaner, and safer.
To make this change official, the government has sent a circular to all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), asking them to start using the new name right away.
In simple terms, this name change is not just for show — it reflects a bigger dream: to build better communities for everyone in Delta State, both now and in the future.
