FCT Minister, Wike Vows to Demolish Illegal Structures in Effort to Restore Abuja Master Plan

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, has declared his commitment to demolish all illegal buildings and structures within the FCT as part of a comprehensive effort to restore the integrity of the Abuja Master Plan.

Speaking at a news conference held in Abuja on Monday, Minister Wike unveiled a series of short, medium, and long-term plans aimed at revitalizing the FCT and positioning it among the world’s premier cities.

Taking a strong stance on enforcing the city’s planning regulations, Minister Wike stated, “It is not going to be business as usual. Those distorting Abuja Master Plan: if you build where you are not supposed to, the building will go down.”

He also emphasized that unapproved constructions on green areas would be dismantled, and land allocated but left undeveloped would be reclaimed and reallocated to those willing to develop them.

Further reinforcing his commitment to restoring order, Wike affirmed, “Those who don’t pay ground rent, we will not notify them to do so, but I will not be tired of signing revocation notices.” He also stressed that unfinished buildings, which often serve as havens for criminal activities, would be reclaimed by the government.

In addition to addressing the issue of illegal structures, the minister outlined plans to address various other challenges facing the FCT. He emphasized that the unregulated operation of markets and motor parks along roadsides would no longer be tolerated due to their contribution to the security challenges in the city.

“We will no longer tolerate indiscriminate roadside markets and motor parks,” said Minister Wike. “Those involved in such activities need to understand that their time is up. Our goal is to sanitize Abuja and make it safe for everyone.”

The minister also highlighted measures to improve waste management, reinstate functioning traffic lights, and ban motorcycle and tricycle operators from the city. The decision to end open grazing within the capital city was also emphasized, with Wike indicating that stakeholders, including both natives and herders, would be consulted to explore alternatives.

Infrastructure development was a central theme in Wike’s address. He emphasized a meticulous, step-by-step approach to restore the city’s former glory. The minister stressed that this approach would extend to the six Area Councils, aiming to alleviate congestion within the city. Additionally, he expressed intentions to address revenue leakages to mobilize resources for the FCT’s infrastructural development.

Addressing security concerns, Minister Wike pledged to collaborate closely with all security agencies in the FCT and provide them with the necessary tools and logistics to eliminate criminal elements from the city. “FCT is supposed to be the safest city in the country,” he remarked, “and we will provide security agencies with the necessary tools and logistics to achieve that goal.”

In the realm of political appointments, Wike assured that he would prioritize the inclusion of natives to ensure broad representation. He also called for the support of all stakeholders, including the media, to bolster public confidence in President Bola Tinubu’s administration and its efforts to instill hope among the populace.

Minister Wike’s comprehensive plan signals a renewed commitment to rectify long-standing issues and position the FCT as a model city on the global stage. His determination to uphold the city’s master plan and prioritize its development has the potential to reshape the landscape of the nation’s capital and enhance the quality of life for its residents.