The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has cancelled all existing park licences in Abuja and directed operators to undergo a fresh screening process before reallocation.
The Director of Development Control, Murktar Galadima, disclosed this in Abuja while explaining the reasons behind the recent demolition of Boulevard Park in Maitama. He said the decision followed a joint memorandum from the Directors of Parks and Recreation and Lands, which highlighted widespread violations and mismanagement in the operation of parks across the city.
According to him, park operators must now submit new applications to the Department of Parks and Recreation for review, after which qualified operators may be reassigned their allocations.
“The minister acted on the recommendation of the memo, which pointed out several breaches of the conditions guiding park management. Operators who comply with the resubmission process and meet the requirements will be considered for reallocation,” Galadima explained.
He stressed that the move was not targeted at individuals but aimed at restoring order in the sector. “This is not a witch-hunt. The minister has the legal authority to revoke these allocations because of the violations involved. Land in the FCT, including parks, is under his jurisdiction,” he said.
Speaking on the Maitama demolition, Galadima noted that operators of Boulevard Park had been duly notified before the action. He explained that the facility had been strictly designated for recreational purposes but was being used in clear violation of all approved terms.
He further said monitoring lapses had contributed to widespread disregard for regulations, but warned that the administration would no longer tolerate non-compliance. “The FCT was established by law, and lawlessness cannot be condoned. Development in the city is guided by regulations, and operators must adhere to the conditions of their allocations,” he added.
Galadima confirmed that a ministerial committee has been set up to reassess all park allocations and ensure they are used strictly for recreational purposes, in line with the original policy of the Federal Capital Territory.
