REGIONAL PLANNING

In regional planning the emphasis on the policies. Those policies become the guidelines for the
urban areas and their existing plans are modified accordingly. This helps in meeting the larger
requirement of the whole region.

Regional planning is an urban planning strategy that focuses on the social, economic, and
environmental development of a specific area. Regional plans address the needs of the entire
region rather than just one municipality. Regional planning is something you should consider
when doing urban planning. The benefits of regional planning include coordination of
transportation, housing, and other public services such as police, fire departments, hospitals, and
schools.

Additionally, regional plans cover more of national level policies and issues & strengthens
integrated development. City planning looks as a limited area when compared to a regional plan.
Regional plan covers rural areas and undeveloped areas too which are usually not covered in
town plans.

Importance & Need of Regional Plan

A city or any area might grow in size and hamper the development of its surrounding area. Over
the decades it starts competing with the surrounding areas and this results in imbalance. It creates
economic as well as functional imbalance in areas. Increases migration, decreases efficiency,
results in undue waste of resources and might also find it difficult to meet its needs. To prevent
such imbalance regional plans are very much required.

It helps in reducing disparities, promoting growth, promoting sustainable development,

economic growth of the collective region based on its potential. Also, issue of migration is also
solved to an great extent because the required facilities are more evenly distributed rather than
being concentrated in a specific urban area. These plans ensure a much better connectivity within
the region and take care of future growth.

Basic goals of regional planning

 Building of the resource base and of economic opportunity, diversity, and Strength.

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  Balance in the economy.
 Environmental improvement.
 General welfare.

Basic Tennets of Regional planning.

i. Areal interrelationships
ii. Cohesions
iii. Integrations

Objectives of Regional Planning

i. Achieve effective land use planning on regional level

ii. Promote affordable housing of all types on regional scale
iii. Reduce air and water pollution as needed.
iv. Conserve water.
v. Minimize freeway expansion through promoting key major street improvements
vi. To achieve quality education on all levels and to all residents
vii. Assure appropriate job creation and job training
viii. Maximize airport system balance for all types and sizes throughout region
ix. Focus on tax base sharing in all forms
x. Minimize public sector budgetary waste and balance budgets

ALTERNATIVE CONCEPTS

1. GROWTH POLE THEORY CONCEPT

The growth pole theory of regional development was first proposed by Perroux in the 1955. The
central idea behind this theory is that economic development can be stimulated by focusing
resources and investment on specific areas or "growth poles" within a region.

The main concept of the growth pole theory is that the development of a single industry or sector
in a particular region will have a multiplier effect on other industries and sectors, leading to
overall economic growth. This growth is believed to spread from the growth pole to surrounding
areas, creating a ripple effect of development throughout the region.

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Pros of the Growth Pole Theory:

1. Concentration of resources: The theory suggests that by focusing resources and investment in
a specific area, it promotes the efficient allocation of resources, leading to the development of
industries and sectors that may not have otherwise emerged.

2. Regional balance: The growth pole theory aims to promote balanced regional development by
focusing on specific areas that have the potential for growth. This can help reduce regional
disparities and ensure that development is not concentrated in a few areas, leading to more
equitable economic growth.

3. Spillover effects: The theory suggests that the development of a growth pole will lead to
spillover effects, benefiting other industries and sectors in the region. This can create
employment opportunities, improved infrastructure, and increased living standards for the local
population.

Cons of the Growth Pole Theory:

1. Neglect of other areas: Critics argue that the growth pole theory may lead to neglect of other
regions that are not designated as growth poles. This could further widen regional disparities and
create a concentration of resources and opportunities in specific areas, leading to uneven
development.

2. Infrastructure and resource strain: Focusing resources and investment in a growth pole may
put strain on infrastructure and resources in that area, potentially leading to congestion,
environmental degradation, and increased competition for resources.

3. Uncertain outcomes: There is no guarantee that the growth pole theory will lead to sustainable
and long-term development. The success of a growth pole depends on various factors such as
government policies, market conditions, and external shocks. If these factors are not favorable,
the growth pole may fail to achieve its intended objectives.

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4. Displacement effects: Critics argue that the growth pole theory may lead to the displacement
of local communities and existing industries that are not aligned with the growth pole's
development plans. This can result in social and economic disruptions for those affected.

The growth pole theory of regional development aims to stimulate economic growth by focusing
resources and investment in specific areas. While it has potential benefits, such as promoting
regional balance and creating spillover effects, it also has limitations, including neglect of other
areas, infrastructure strain, uncertain outcomes, and potential displacement effects.

2. UNBALANCED GROWTH THEORY CONCEPT

The theory of unbalanced growth in regional planning, popularized by Hirschman in the 1958,
suggests that economic development can be achieved by focusing resources and investment on
specific industries or sectors within a region. The central idea behind this theory is that targeted
development in key sectors can create a multiplier effect, leading to overall regional growth.

The main concept of the theory of unbalanced growth is that by strategically prioritizing certain
sectors or industries, resources can be utilized more efficiently, leading to faster and more
effective economic development. Unlike the growth pole theory, the theory of unbalanced
growth does not focus on a single growth pole, but rather on multiple sectors that have high
growth potential and complement each other.

Pros of the Theory of Unbalanced Growth:

1. Enhanced efficiency: By concentrating resources on selected sectors, the theory aims to

achieve specialization and economies of scale. This can lead to improved productivity,
competitiveness, and overall economic efficiency.

2. Stimulation of innovation: The theory emphasizes the importance of investing in sectors that
have the potential for high technological innovation. By promoting innovation, the theory
encourages the creation of new products, services, and industries, which can drive economic
growth and diversification.

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3. Employment creation: Focusing on specific sectors can lead to the creation of job
opportunities, particularly in industries with high labor intensity. This can help reduce
unemployment rates and improve living standards for the local population.

Cons of the Theory of Unbalanced Growth:

1. Vulnerability to external shocks: Focusing on a limited number of sectors can make a region
vulnerable to external shocks or changes in market conditions. If the prioritized sectors face
decline or disruption, the entire region may suffer significant economic setbacks.

2. Social and environmental impacts: The theory's emphasis on economic growth and efficiency
may result in social and environmental issues. For example, rapid growth in certain sectors can
cause inequality, displacement of local communities, and environmental degradation.

The theory of unbalanced growth in regional planning suggests that targeted development in
specific sectors can lead to efficient resource utilization and overall economic growth. While it
offers potential benefits such as enhanced efficiency, innovation stimulation, and employment
creation, it also has drawbacks including neglect of other sectors, regional disparities,
vulnerability to external shocks, and social and environmental impacts.

Considerations

Determining which theory is better depends on the specific objectives, context, and priorities of
regional planning. The growth pole theory may be suitable in situations where there is a clear
potential for developing a specific industry or area, and when regional disparities need to be
addressed. The theory of unbalanced growth may be preferable when diversifying the economy,
promoting innovation and efficiency, and achieving balanced development across multiple
sectors is a priority. Ultimately, a combination of the two theories or tailoring their approaches to
the specific regional context may yield the best outcomes.

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COST-BENEFIT ANALYSIS FOR GROWTH POLE THEORY

Identification of Growth Poles:

Cost

- Expert consultancy fees: N150, 000

- Research and data collection: N300, 000

Benefit:

- Improved resource allocation: Long-term economic impact

Infrastructure Development:

Cost:

- Roads, utilities, and facilities: N299, 000, 000

Benefit:

- Increased economic activities: Enhanced business and industrial development

Employment Generation:

Cost:

- Job training programs: N110, 000, 000

Benefit:

- Reduced unemployment: Social and economic improvement

Economic Diversification:

Cost:

- Investment in diversification projects: N200, 000, 000

Benefit:

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 - Resilient and sustainable economy: Reduced dependence on a single sector

Social Infrastructure:

Cost:

- Construction of schools, hospitals, etc.: N283, 000, 000

Benefit:

- Improved quality of life: Enhanced human development

Environmental Impact Assessment:

Cost:

- Environmental studies and mitigation measures: N22, 000, 000

Benefit:

- Sustainable development: Mitigation of adverse environmental effects

Monitoring and Evaluation:

Cost:

- Staff and technology for monitoring: N20, 000, 000

Benefit:

- Informed decision-making: Continuous improvement and adaptability

Public-Private Partnerships (PPP):

Cost:

- Establishment and maintenance costs: N31, 000, 000

Benefit:

- Leveraging private sector resources: Increased efficiency and effectiveness

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Risk Analysis:

Cost:

- Resources for risk assessment and mitigation: N15, 000, 000

Benefit:

- Informed decision-making: Reduced potential negative impacts

Long-Term Economic Impact:

Cost:

- Initial investments in growth poles: N19, 000, 000

Benefit:

- Sustainable economic growth: Increased regional development

Total Costs: N999, 450, 000

COST-BENEFIT ANALYSIS FOR UNBALANCED GROWTH:

Identifying Key Sectors for Unbalanced Growth:

Cost:

- Research and data collection: N300, 000

Benefit:

- Targeted development in sectors with high growth potential

Infrastructure Investment in High-Growth Areas:

Cost:

- Roads, utilities, and facilities: N250, 000, 000

Benefit:

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 - Increased economic activities in specific regions

Employment Initiatives in High-Growth Areas:

Cost:

- Job creation programs: N100, 000, 000

Benefit:

- Reduced unemployment in targeted regions

Economic Specialization:

Cost:

- Investment in specialized industries: N150, 000, 000

Benefit:

- Enhanced competitiveness in specific sectors

Social Infrastructure Development:

Cost:

- Construction of schools, hospitals, etc.: N250, 000, 000

Benefit:

- Improved quality of life in high-growth areas

Monitoring and Evaluation:

Cost:

- Staff and technology for monitoring: N20, 000, 000

Benefit:

- Informed decision-making for ongoing adjustments

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Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) for Targeted Sectors:

Cost:

- Establishment and maintenance costs: N28, 000, 000

Benefit:

- Leveraging private sector resources for specific sector development

Risk Analysis for Unbalanced Growth:

Cost:

- Resources for risk assessment and mitigation: N10, 000, 000

Benefit:

- Informed decision-making to reduce potential negative impacts

Long-Term Economic Impact in Targeted Regions:

Cost:

- Initial investments in high-growth areas: N15, 000, 000

Benefit:

- Long-term economic growth and development in specific regions

Total Costs: N823, 300, 000

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IMPLEMENTATION OF REGIONAL PLAN

Since regional plans cover various types of settlements they require multiple agencies working
together for its implementation. This will be done in various manner, either giving this
responsibility to an existing development authority like the Benue State Planning Commission
and Lower Benue Development Authority using Public Private Partnership Strategy. This
existing development authority then works actively with various other departments. This is
required because regional planners need to have a broad overview of the whole region. The plan
formed needs to meet the requirement of the whole region and at same time should also cater to
the existing requirements. Allocation of funds is another important aspect of regional planning as
the funds are collected and received from various sources. There are various sources since the
area covered under a regional plan is a part of Makurdi and different administrative areas. Thus
funding might be collectively from state government, Local government, special allocation of
funds and Private Sector.

GENERAL OUTLINE OF THE TYPES OF POLICIES THAT ARE PROPOSED FOR

GOVERNMENT TO IMPLEMENT:

1. Agro-Processing Industries:

Policy Initiatives:

- Incentives for agro-processing businesses, such as tax breaks or subsidies.

- Access to credit facilities for agro-processing entrepreneurs.

- Infrastructure development to support transportation and storage of agricultural products.

2. Market and Economy:

Policy Initiatives:

- Creation of a conducive business environment through regulatory reforms.

- Investment promotion to attract businesses and investors.

- Infrastructure development to enhance market access and economic activities.

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 3. Agricultural Irrigation Farming:

Policy Initiatives:

- Development of irrigation infrastructure.

- Training programs for farmers on modern irrigation techniques.

- Implementation of water management policies to ensure sustainable use.

4. Skill Acquisition Programs:

Policy Initiatives:

- Establishing skill acquisition centers.

- Collaboration with educational institutions and private entities.

- Offering incentives for companies providing apprenticeships and training programs.

5. Agricultural Extension Programs:

Policy Initiatives:

- Strengthening extension services to provide farmers with the latest agricultural practices.

- Information dissemination through technology, training, and workshops.

- Support for community-based agricultural extension initiatives.

6. Sand Mining and Bricklaying Industry:

Policy Initiatives:

- Regulation and licensing of sand mining activities.

- Environmental impact assessments and sustainable mining practices.

- Training and safety regulations for workers in the bricklaying industry.

7. Waste Dump Site:

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Policy Initiatives:

- Establishment of controlled waste disposal sites.

- Implementation of waste management and recycling policies.

- Public awareness and education programs on proper waste disposal.

8. Housing Layout:

Policy Initiatives:

- Urban planning regulations and guidelines for housing layouts.

- Infrastructure development to support residential areas.

- Affordable housing initiatives to address housing challenges.

Public-Private Partnership

 BIPC - Benue Investment and Property Company Limited

 Private Real Estate Investors

9. Agricultural Reserved Lands and Plantation:

Policy Initiatives:

- Zoning regulations to designate and protect agricultural lands.

- Support for the establishment of agricultural plantations.

- Incentives for sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices.

10. Overall Agricultural Development:

Policy Initiatives:

- Implementation of comprehensive agricultural development plans.

- Support for research and development in agriculture.

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 - Access to credit facilities and market linkages for farmers.

IMPLEMENTATION PLAN

1. Agro-Processing Industries:

Objectives:

- Increase local processing of agricultural products.

- Create job opportunities in agro-processing.

Strategies:

- Provide incentives for agro-processing startups.

- Establish processing centers.

- Facilitate access to credit for agro-processing businesses.

2. Market and Economy:

Objectives:

- Boost economic activities and attract investments.

- Enhance market infrastructure and accessibility.

Strategies:

- Implement business-friendly regulations.

- Invest in market infrastructure and transportation.

- Promote investment opportunities through marketing campaigns.

3. Agricultural Irrigation Farming:

Objectives:

- Improve agricultural productivity through irrigation.

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 - Ensure sustainable water management.

Strategies:

- Develop irrigation infrastructure.

- Provide training on modern irrigation techniques.

- Enforce water management policies.

4. Skill Acquisition Programs:

Objectives:

- Reduce unemployment through skill development.

- Meet the demand for skilled labor.

Strategies:

- Establish skill acquisition centers.

- Collaborate with educational institutions and industries.

- Provide financial incentives for companies offering training programs.

5. Agricultural Extension Programs:

Objectives:

- Disseminate modern agricultural practices.

- Strengthen farmer-extension worker relationships.

Strategies:

- Expand extension services.

- Utilize technology for information dissemination.

- Support community-based extension initiatives.

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6. Sand Mining and Bricklaying Industry:

Objectives:

- Regulate and monitor sand mining activities.

- Ensure safety and environmental sustainability in bricklaying.

Strategies:

- Develop regulations and licensing for sand mining.

- Conduct environmental impact assessments.

- Implement safety regulations for bricklaying.

7. Waste Dump Site:

Objectives:

- Establish controlled waste disposal sites.

- Promote waste management and recycling.

Strategies:

- Identify suitable locations for waste dump sites.

- Implement waste management policies.

- Conduct public awareness campaigns.

8. Housing Layout:

Objectives:

- Plan and regulate urban development.

- Provide affordable housing.

Strategies:

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 - Develop urban planning regulations.

- Invest in infrastructure to support residential areas.

- Implement affordable housing initiatives.

9. Agricultural Reserved Lands and Plantation:

Objectives:

- Protect agricultural lands through zoning.

- Promote sustainable farming practices.

Strategies:

- Implement zoning regulations.

- Provide incentives for sustainable farming.

- Support the establishment of agricultural plantations.

10. Roundabout and Adjustment of Some Roads:

Objectives:

- Improve traffic flow and safety.

- Enhance road connectivity.

Strategies:

- Identify key roundabouts and roads for adjustment.

- Invest in road infrastructure improvements.

- Ensure community engagement in planning.

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 PHASING PLAN (FOUR YEARS)

Phase One: 2024

In this phase, roundabout and roads will be constructed and improved upon, as well as
implementation of housing layouts. This is to ensure that housing units and other activity areas
are accessible. This stage of implementation phasing will cover a duration of one-year.

Phase Two: 2025 – 2026

In the second phase, Agro-Processing Industries, Sand Mining and Bricklaying Industry will be
constructed, while Agricultural Irrigation Farming will be introduced as well as the
implementation of Agricultural Extension Programs and reservation of Agricultural Lands to
support plantations and other development. This is to enhance the economic growth and
productivity of the region. This will cover a period of two years.

Phase Three: 2027

This phase will be the last phase. The stakeholders will focus on bringing in Skill Acquisition
Programs in order to reduce unemployment problems within the region. The stakeholders will
also give maximum attention to the provision of waste collection points and waste bins will be
introduced. Monitoring and Evaluation will also be done in this phase to ensure strict compliance
to the standards and ensure success of the plan.

- Establish a monitoring and evaluation framework to track the progress of each initiative.

- Regularly review and adjust the plan based on performance indicators and feedback.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the proposed regional planning initiative encapsulate a comprehensive approach to

sustainable development, addressing various sectors crucial for economic growth, environmental
responsibility, and community well-being. By strategically implementing policies and projects in
agro-processing, market and economy, agricultural irrigation farming, skill acquisition programs,
agricultural extension programs, sand mining, bricklaying industry, waste management, housing
layout, agricultural reserved lands, plantation, and road infrastructure adjustments, the region

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aims to foster balanced and resilient development. This holistic regional planning approach seeks
to create a conducive environment for economic activities, job creation, and skill development
while promoting environmentally sustainable practices. The proposed strategies are designed to
meet the specific needs of the region, taking into account the unique challenges and opportunities
present in the region. Continuous monitoring, evaluation, and community engagement are
integral components, ensuring that the regional plan remains adaptive and responsive to evolving
circumstances, ultimately contributing to the long-term prosperity and well-being of the
community.

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