The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has revoked all park licenses in Abuja, directing operators to resubmit their documents for fresh screening and possible reallocation. The move follows widespread policy breaches and land-use violations across the city.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the FCTA’s Director of Development Control, Mukhtar Galadima, explained on Wednesday that the decision stemmed from a memo submitted by the Directors of Parks and Recreation and Lands, which detailed major lapses in park management.
Galadima emphasized that the revocation is not a punitive measure but a corrective step aimed at restoring order, legality, and compliance with urban policies.
“This is not witch-hunting. All park allocations were withdrawn due to consistent violations. The Minister has the authority to regulate land use in the FCT, including public parks,” he stated.
He added that operators who meet the set terms and conditions will have their licenses reissued:
“Once they submit the necessary documents and are found eligible, they will be reallocated and allowed to regain access to their parks.”
Background and Developments
The directive comes on the heels of the demolition of Boulevard Park in Maitama, which was flagged for operating outside its approved purpose. Galadima clarified that the park had received proper notice before enforcement action was taken, stressing that every step followed due process.
The FCTA disclosed that Boulevard Park had originally been designated strictly for recreation but violated all approved terms of use. Moving forward, all parks within the FCT will be required to submit conceptual designs for approval prior to opening. The Department of Parks and Recreation will also closely monitor compliance to ensure operations align with approved guidelines.
To reinforce the process, a ministerial committee has been established to review all allocations and ensure that parks are strictly used for recreational purposes.
Broader Urban Planning Efforts
The revocation aligns with the FCTA’s broader push for urban order and safety across Abuja. Recent enforcement efforts have included the demolition of shanties and illegal structures often linked to criminal activities.
In August, more than 1,000 unauthorized buildings were cleared in Karsana near Bunkoro District, Gwarinpa, to pave the way for a major road corridor. Indigenous homes were exempted from the demolition. Similar clean-up operations were carried out at Cashew Garden in Apo Cadastral Zone E27 to eliminate criminal hideouts and strengthen public security.
Beyond enforcement, the FCTA is also driving urban renewal through private-sector partnerships. Recently, it signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with MAG International Links Ltd to develop City Walk Abuja, a 200-hectare mixed-use project inspired by Dubai’s City Walk. The project aims to attract investment, generate employment, and ensure urban development is aligned with modern planning frameworks.
