The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has ruled out reversing plans to redevelop Jabi Lake, despite public appeals.
He maintained that decisions regarding the site will be guided by policy and land-use regulations, not emotional pressure.
Wike made this known during a media chat in Abuja while reacting to a viral video of Senior Pastor Sarah Omakwu, who publicly pleaded with the minister to halt plans to concession the Jabi Lake recreational area.
In the video, the cleric appealed passionately, describing the location as a vital social and economic space where residents gather for leisure, business, and community activities.
However, Wike dismissed the appeal, stating that such emotional gestures would not influence government decisions.
According to him, Jabi Lake is public property and not owned by any individual, stressing that policies must reflect the broader interest of the city.
The minister explained that his administration inherited a poorly managed arrangement at the site, where a previous investor held the land for over a decade without meaningful development.
He noted that despite initial promises to transform the area into a modern recreational hub, the location remained largely undeveloped, with makeshift structures dominating the space.
As a result, the government revoked the allocation and is now seeking credible investors capable of delivering on development plans.
Wike added that the new arrangement would include strict conditions to ensure timely execution, warning that any failure to develop the site within the agreed timeline would lead to another revocation.
The FCT Minister also used the opportunity to emphasise the importance of adhering to Abuja’s land-use regulations.
He cited a separate case involving a religious building allegedly constructed on land designated for recreational purposes, noting that such violations would not be tolerated.
According to him, individuals or organisations cannot expect sympathy after disregarding approved land use guidelines.
He insisted that maintaining order and enforcing regulations is necessary for proper urban development in the capital.
Wike reaffirmed that the goal of the redevelopment is to transform Jabi Lake into a major recreational and tourism destination.
He revealed that the Federal Capital Territory Administration has already entered into partnerships with private firms, including Suburban Broadband Limited and Akida Hills Limited, to upgrade the facility.
The project is expected to enhance leisure opportunities, attract investment, and boost economic activities within Abuja.
Despite public concerns, Nyesom Wike remains firm on the redevelopment of Jabi Lake, emphasising that the initiative is in the overall interest of the city. As the project moves forward, attention will be on how the government balances development goals with public sentiment.
