Biography
TPL. Dr. Ashafa Yusuf Sama’ila, Ph.D, FICJC, FIMC, is a seasoned Urban and Regional Planning professional, disaster risk management expert, and public sector administrator with over two decades of experience in leadership, governance, urban development, and community service.
He currently serves as Deputy Director (Planning) at the Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Federal Capital Development Authority, where he plays a strategic role in the implementation and monitoring of the Abuja Master Plan, regional development policies, land use planning, and sustainable urban development initiatives within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Dr. Ashafa obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Urban and Regional Planning (B.URP) from Ahmadu Bello University in 2000. He further advanced his academic and professional career with a Master’s Degree in Disaster Risk Management and Development Studies, a Master of Philosophy (MPhil), and a PhD in Disaster Risk Management and Development Studies from the same institution.
Throughout his distinguished career, he has attended several local and international professional trainings and development programmes, including certifications from the Commonwealth Association of Planners (CAP), Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP), the Centre for Disaster Risk Management and Development Studies, University of Port Harcourt, and international leadership training in Indonesia.
Dr. Ashafa is widely respected for his commitment to mentorship, professional excellence, transparency, and community development. He has served in several strategic committees and leadership positions, including Chairman of the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) of the FCDA, National Chairman of the Arewa Scholars Forum (ASF), and Chairman of Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas (HOSCON), Kaduna State Chapter.
A Fellow of the Institute of Criminal Justice and Criminology Administration (FICJC) and Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants (FIMC), Dr. Ashafa is also an active member of several professional and development organizations, contributing significantly to policy advocacy, urban planning, disaster risk management, and youth empowerment initiatives across Nigeria.
His outstanding contributions to public service, leadership, and humanitarian development have earned him numerous awards and traditional titles, including Sardaunan Ikulu, Garkuwan Matasan Arewa, and Regional Planner of the Year 2022 by Igbere TV Leadership Excellence Awards.
Dr. Ashafa Yusuf Sama’ila is recognized as a visionary leader, mentor, and advocate for sustainable development, good governance, and inclusive growth, with a strong passion for empowering communities and shaping future generations of professionals and leaders.