The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed the Government’s decision to reclaim and redevelop areas surrounding Jabi Lake in Abuja, declaring that the project will move forward regardless of public criticism or emotional appeals.
Speaking during a media briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, Wike defended the controversial revocation of land allocations around the popular recreation hub, insisting that the move aligns with existing laws and the Abuja master plan.
The Minister’s remarks came in response to a viral video showing Rev. Sarah Omakwu emotionally pleading against the Government’s action during a church service. In the video, the cleric knelt on the pulpit, appealing to Wike not to hand over the Jabi Lake Recreation Centre for private development.
Despite the public reaction generated by the video, Wike maintained that sentiments would not influence Government policy. According to him, the lake area had been allocated to a private company for over 15 years without meaningful development, leaving the environment in poor condition.
He stated that the site, originally intended to become a modern entertainment and tourism destination similar to international urban recreation centres, had instead deteriorated into an area filled with makeshift structures and poorly maintained facilities.
Wike explained that after personally inspecting the location, he concluded that the situation was unacceptable for a prime area within the nation’s capital. He raised concerns about security, environmental standards, and the overall appearance of the area, describing the undeveloped sections as inconsistent with Abuja’s urban planning vision.
The FCT Minister revealed that the Government had already revoked the previous allocation and would reassign the land to investors capable of delivering the proposed development within a specified timeframe. He added that any future investor who fails to meet development conditions would also risk losing the allocation.
Responding to critics who accused the administration of trying to privatise public space, Wike argued that Jabi Lake belongs to the Government and should be developed in a way that benefits the broader public rather than a few individuals or businesses.
He also disclosed that authorities had issued notices to some structures operating illegally around the area, including a Church allegedly built on land designated for recreational use. According to him, the FCT Administration would continue enforcing development regulations without exception.
Wike further stressed that many plots around Jabi Lake had remained abandoned for years, warning that the administration was determined to end land speculation and ensure proper use of strategic public assets in Abuja.
However, he denied suggestions that the redevelopment plan would restrict public access to Jabi Lake, insisting that the project is aimed at restoring order, improving infrastructure, and transforming the area into a world-class recreational and tourism destination.