ABUJA, Nigeria – Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has proclaimed a rigorous crackdown on all illegal buildings and structures in the city, aiming to restore the Abuja Master Plan.
During a press conference on Monday, August 21, 2023, in Abuja, Wike laid out an extensive strategy to transform the capital city and propel it to a position of global prominence.
In his stern warning, he remarked, “Those distorting Abuja Master Plan: if you build where you are not supposed to, the building will go down.”
The Minister’s drive to overhaul the FCT will address uncompleted buildings, which have become criminal hotspots. These will be reclaimed by the government.
Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of adhering to the Abuja Master Plan by eliminating the unauthorized operation of markets and motor parks by the roadside.
“Time is up for anyone selling goods by the roadside or operating illegal motor parks. The goal is to sanitise Abuja and make it safe for everyone,” Mr. Wike declared.
Among the proposed changes, Wike has highlighted the reinvigoration of waste management, restoration of traffic lights, a ban on motorcycle and tricycle operations, and the prohibition of open grazing within the city.
Regarding transportation, the Minister assured, “We will bring back mass transit to improve access to public transportation.” This plan will also focus on infrastructure, emphasizing a systematic, project-by-project approach.
Security remains a paramount concern. Wike committed to strengthening collaboration with all security agencies, equipping them adequately to ensure safety.
“FCT is supposed to be the safest city in the country,” he stated, expressing concern over the current security state.
Lastly, the minister affirmed his commitment to an inclusive governance approach, vowing to consider the native population in political appointments.
This new direction comes as part of President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s vision to bolster public confidence and hope in the nation’s governance.
