From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has revoked all existing park licences across Abuja and ordered all park operators to resubmit their documentation for fresh vetting and possible reassignment.
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Director of the Department of Development Control, Murktar Galadima, revealed this during an interview, shedding light on the rationale behind the demolition of Boulevard Park in Maitama.
He explained that the directive was prompted by a joint memorandum from the Directors of Parks and Recreation and Lands, which detailed numerous breaches and mismanagement issues linked to park operations in the FCT.
“The Minister of the FCT took this step following the memo, which brought to light several inadequacies and violations concerning park management,” Galadima said. He added that operators are now expected to submit their applications to the Department of Parks and Recreation for a thorough review.
“If their submissions satisfy the terms and conditions, they will be considered for reallocation. Park owners should comply with this request by submitting their documents so they can regain their parks if they qualify,” he clarified.
Addressing concerns about the motives behind the withdrawal, Galadima emphasized that the action is not intended as persecution but as a measure to restore order and enforce compliance with regulatory standards.
“There’s absolutely no witch-hunt involved. The Minister has the authority to revoke these allocations because they were accompanied by multiple breaches. Land in the FCT, parks included, is under his jurisdiction,” he stated firmly.
Regarding the recent demolition at Boulevard Park, Galadima noted that operators were given prior notice ahead of enforcement actions.
“Boulevard Park was designated strictly for recreational use, but the activities conducted there flagrantly breached all park policy provisions. The park violated every term and condition,” he said.
He also highlighted that ongoing monitoring of parks falls under the Department of Parks and Recreation’s duties, and that park operators are required to submit their conceptual plans for approval before starting operations. Unfortunately, lapses in supervision contributed to widespread non-compliance.
“The FCT was established by law, and lawlessness cannot be tolerated here. The city’s development is regulated by law, and every operator must adhere strictly to the agreed terms and conditions of their park allocation,” Galadima warned.
Finally, he confirmed that a ministerial committee has been formed to reassess all park allocations and usages with the goal of ensuring parks serve their intended recreational purpose.
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