By Abuja, Nigeria
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has reiterated the administration’s commitment to enforcing Abuja’s master plan and curbing illegal developments across the city. Wike gave the assurance while addressing journalists after inspecting several ongoing projects within the FCT, including road construction sites and areas under development control.
During the inspection tour, the minister visited Guzape, where authorities recently demolished structures erected on land designated as a green area. He explained that the land was originally reserved strictly for recreational purposes but had been unlawfully converted into a residential estate by developers.
“We will not allow that here. This place was given as a green area, but they wanted to develop it into an estate, which is in violation,” Wike stated.
He disclosed that the government would withdraw the developer’s approval, stressing that the land was never intended for residential construction.
The minister also referenced a similar enforcement action at a site previously allocated to foreign embassies but illegally occupied. According to him, the unauthorized structures were demolished, and the affected embassies have been formally notified to return and develop their plots. On the issue of demolition costs, Wike maintained that such actions fall within the routine responsibilities of governance.
“It’s part of governance. There is nothing we can do. Development control has a budget to remove illegal developments,” he said.
Addressing concerns about internal complicity, Wike acknowledged that some illegal developments occur with the involvement of government officials. He noted that building approvals require valid documentation, including a Certificate of Occupancy, and questioned how approvals were granted in cases lacking proper records.
“There must be collaboration within various departments,” he said, adding that the administration would not overlook violations, even if civil servants are implicated.
He further criticized individuals who attempt to manipulate the system or compromise officials, stressing that adherence to the city’s master plan is non-negotiable.
“Every city has a master plan showing how areas should look. But here, people don’t want to obey anything,” he said.
Wike, however, expressed satisfaction with the progress of ongoing infrastructure projects across Abuja, noting that routine inspections are aimed at ensuring contractors meet deadlines and maintain quality standards.
