The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has ordered a crackdown on abandoned and poorly developed areas around Jabi Lake, describing the situation as an eyesore unbefitting of Nigeria’s capital city.
The directive follows a viral video in which a cleric appealed to the Minister to “leave Jabi Lake for Nigerians”, warning against developments that could restrict public access to the recreational area. The pastor described the lake as a shared heritage and relaxation spot, sparking widespread reactions and concerns over possible commercialisation.
Addressing journalists during a media parley in Abuja on Wednesday, Wike dismissed what he described as emotional appeals, insisting that government actions were guided strictly by law and the Abuja Master Plan.
“They told us they would build something like what you see in Dubai – a city walk, a proper entertainment centre. But what do you find there today? Shanties. Who will come and stay in such a place?” he queried.
The Minister said portions of land around the lake, originally allocated for high-end developments, had remained undeveloped for years and were now occupied by makeshift structures.
“For 15 years, nothing happened. We cannot continue like that. If you are not ready to develop, we will take back the land and give it to those who are serious,” Wike declared.
He disclosed that the FCT Administration had already revoked some affected plots, stressing that Abuja would no longer tolerate speculative investors holding on to prime land without development.
“You must commit to development within a given period. If you fail, the land returns to government. It is as simple as that,” he said.
Wike clarified that the measures were not aimed at denying public access to Jabi Lake but at restoring order and ensuring proper development.
“We are not taking anything from the public. We are reclaiming land from those who failed to do what they were supposed to do or who converted it to unauthorised uses,” he said.
He also frowned at the misuse of designated land, citing cases where recreational spaces had been converted to places of worship without approval.
“You cannot take land meant for recreation and turn it into something else. That is not how a modern city operates. We will enforce compliance,” he warned.
The Minister maintained that the goal is to upgrade the environment around Jabi Lake in line with global standards while preserving its value as a public recreational asset.
