Abuja Parks Licences Withdrawn Over Policy Violations

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has withdrawn all park licences in Abuja, citing major policy violations. Director of Development Control Mukhtar Galadima said the decision follows a memo from the directors of Parks and Recreation and Lands, which highlighted serious breaches and inadequacies in park management. The FCT minister’s directive allows park operators to resubmit their documents for fresh screening and possible reallocation. Operators who meet the required terms and conditions will be reallocated, provided they respond and submit the necessary paperwork for approval. Galadima emphasized that this is not a witch‑hunt but a necessary step to restore order and ensure compliance with urban policies governing park operations in the Federal Capital Territory.

The recent demolition of Boulevard Park in Maitama, Abuja, resulted from the park’s violation of its original terms of use. Although approved for recreational purposes, the park conducted activities that contravened recreational policies and deviated from the approved land‑use allocation. Galadima noted that the operators were properly notified beforehand and that enforcement proceeded only after all legal requirements were satisfied.

The Department of Parks and Recreation is responsible for monitoring park activities and ensuring that parks operate within approved regulatory guidelines. However, a lack of monitoring has led to widespread abuse and policy breaches. Galadima stated that all parks must submit conceptual designs for approval before opening, and every operator must comply with the terms and conditions attached to their allocation. A ministerial committee has been established to review all park allocations and ensure that their usage aligns strictly with the original recreational purposes.

The FCTA’s decision to withdraw park licences and require fresh document submissions aims to restore order and legality in park management across the territory. This move is seen as a significant step toward regulating land use in the Federal Capital Territory and promoting compliance with urban policies.