Dare Babalola
Prominent activist, Aisha Yesufu, has criticised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over what she described as the “dangerous” conversion of public green areas in Abuja into private developments.
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, Yesufu raised alarm over recent development agreements concerning the popular Jabi Lake Park, warning that the move threatens both environmental sustainability and public access to shared spaces in the nation’s capital.
She argued that Abuja was originally designed as a city that prioritises balance, inclusivity, and environmental protection, stressing that such ideals are now being undermined by policies focused on land monetisation and private concessions.
“The Federal Capital Territory was designed as a city of dignity and for all Nigerians, but that vision is being eroded,” she said, criticising what she called a steady erosion of public assets.
Yesufu described Jabi Lake Park as one of the few remaining open green spaces accessible to ordinary residents, noting that it serves as a recreational hub for families, a source of livelihood for small-scale vendors, and a gathering point for communities.
According to her, transferring such spaces to private entities risks excluding low-income Nigerians while favouring elite interests.
She further emphasised the environmental importance of green zones within Abuja’s master plan, stating that such areas play critical roles in regulating urban temperature, managing stormwater, and maintaining ecological stability.
“These spaces are not mere aesthetics; they are essential infrastructure,” she said, warning that their disappearance could have long-term consequences for the city’s livability.
The activist accused the FCT administration under Wike of prioritising commercial gains over public welfare, alleging that parks and waterfronts are increasingly being converted into private investments, while oversight mechanisms remain ineffective.
She cautioned that the trend could fundamentally alter Abuja’s identity, turning what she described as a “people’s capital” into an exclusive enclave for the wealthy.
Calling for action, Yesufu urged civil society organisations, urban planners, environmental advocates, and residents to resist what she termed a “silent takeover” of public assets. She stressed the need to defend the original Abuja master plan and preserve remaining green spaces for future generations.
“Abuja belongs to all Nigerians, and its shared heritage must be protected,” she added.
Her comments come amid growing public debate over land use policies and urban development in the FCT, particularly concerning the balance between infrastructure expansion, environmental preservation, and equitable access to public resources.
