The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has announced that the relocation of traders from the Apo Mechanic Village to the newly developed Wasa District will be completed before the end of 2026 as part of efforts to improve urban planning and security in Abuja.
Speaking during a media parley at his official residence in Life Camp, Abuja, on Tuesday, Wike said infrastructure at the Wasa relocation site had been completed, with only the finalisation of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) outstanding.
He explained that disagreements among traders’ associations had delayed the process, stressing that the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) would retain regulatory oversight of the facility rather than transfer full ownership through the issuance of Certificates of Occupancy.
“Already, the infrastructure has been provided. What is left is to conclude the governance framework through an MoU so the government can retain control. I believe before the end of the year, the issues will be resolved,” the minister said.
Wike added that security operations targeting illegal settlements and criminal hideouts, including those around Karmajiji in the Kukwaba District, would continue as part of efforts to enhance public safety.
On land administration, the minister urged residents who acquired land through the Area Councils to regularise their titles with the FCTA, following the Supreme Court’s affirmation that all land within the Federal Capital Territory falls under the administration’s authority.
He disclosed that between 5,000 and 6,000 land titles had already been regularised, enabling beneficiaries to obtain Certificates of Occupancy.
Wike also highlighted the administration’s intervention in resolving land ownership disputes affecting homeowners in River Park Estate. He further announced plans to redevelop abandoned recreational facilities, including the Life Camp Recreation Centre and Jabi Lake Recreation Park, through public-private partnerships.
The minister warned developers holding public land without commencing development for extended periods that such allocations could be revoked if agreed timelines were not met.
He also disclosed that a committee had been established to address the growing problem of illegal car racing in residential areas, insisting that activities threatening the safety of residents would not be tolerated.
Wike reaffirmed the administration’s policy of awarding only projects backed by available funding to eliminate abandoned contracts. He added that completing the Abuja Millennium Tower would require direct intervention by the Federal Government.
