The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has directed the redevelopment of the abandoned recreational park at the Life Camp Roundabout into a modern leisure and sporting facility as part of the Federal Capital Territory Administration’s broader efforts to expand recreational infrastructure for Abuja residents.
The decision follows the successful remodelling of the Abuja City Gate, which has become a popular attraction since its inauguration during activities marking President Bola Tinubu’s third anniversary in office.
The City Gate project also earned the FCT Administration an award and commendation from the Office of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, under the Renewed Hope Initiative’s Green Nigeria Challenge.
Speaking after inspecting the Life Camp recreation park on Monday, Wike said the recognition had further strengthened the administration’s resolve to invest in more green and recreational spaces across the nation’s capital.
“Today, by the grace of God, the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, presented the Federal Capital Territory Administration with an award and commendation for our contribution to the Renewed Hope Initiative’s Green Nigeria Challenge and for transforming the City Gate into a recreational centre while making the environment greener,” he said.
The minister said the transformation of the Abuja City Gate had demonstrated the importance of investing in public recreational spaces.
“It was the initiative of the First Lady to ensure that the City Gate reflects the standard of city gates around the world. Since it was commissioned, it has become a major attraction where people visit both day and night. This award will encourage and motivate us to continue implementing the ideals of the Renewed Hope Initiative,” he stated.
Wike described the state of the Life Camp recreation park as unfortunate, noting that successive administrations had failed to develop a facility with significant recreational potential.
“It is unfortunate that governments have come and gone without paying attention to this place. I must commend the First Lady for reminding us of the importance of preserving places where people can leave their homes and neighbourhoods to relax,” he said.
The minister explained that the administration intends to restore the park by providing modern recreational and sporting facilities for residents.
“Our plan is to restore this park and provide modern facilities so that people living in this area can come here for their daily exercise, recreation and relaxation, take photographs and enjoy themselves, just as people do in advanced countries,” he said.
Wike disclosed that he had directed the Federal Capital Development Administration (FCDA) to begin the redesign of the facility immediately, stressing that the project would be treated as a priority.
“I have directed the relevant officials of the FCDA to move swiftly and present designs befitting a capital city like Abuja. We are treating this as an emergency because our people deserve better,” he said.
The minister also announced plans to introduce an annual New Year fireworks display at the Abuja City Gate beginning this year, describing the initiative as part of efforts to align Abuja with other major capital cities around the world.
“Like many cities across the world that usher in the New Year with fireworks, that is what we intend to do this year at the City Gate. By the grace of God, through the Renewed Hope Initiative, we will celebrate the New Year in that manner for the first time in this country,” he said.
Expressing satisfaction with the site’s natural landscape, Wike said the administration would engage reputable firms and compare several design proposals before awarding the contract to ensure the best outcome.
“Look at the topography and see what we have been missing. Citizens want a better quality of life, and they are not asking for too much. The administration of President Bola Tinubu is determined to restore hope to the people. We will invite the best companies and obtain alternative designs so that we can compare and select the most suitable one. We want a project that meets global standards and is delivered as quickly as possible,” he said.
The planned redevelopment forms part of the FCT Administration’s ongoing efforts to improve the quality of life in Abuja by expanding access to green spaces, leisure parks and recreational facilities for residents.
