The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has withdrawn all park licences in the FCT, directing operators to resubmit their documents for fresh screening and possible reallocation.
The Director of Department of Development Control, Mukhtar Galadima, made this known in an interview with newsmen while explaining the reasons for the demolition of Boulevard Park in Maitama, Abuja.
Galadima explained that the Minister of the FCT took the decision following a memo jointly submitted by the Directors of Parks and Recreation and Lands, which highlighted several inadequacies and violations associated with the management of parks in the territory.
According to Galadima, the new directive offers park operators an opportunity to resubmit their documents to the Department of Parks and Recreation for review.
“If they meet the terms and conditions, they can be reallocated. Owners of parks should respond to the call, submit their documents, and if they meet the requirements, they will return to their parks,” he explained.
Galadima stressed that the decision was not an act of witch-hunt but part of efforts to restore order and compliance with existing policies.
“There is nothing like witch-hunting. All park allocations have been withdrawn following a series of violations, and the Minister is at liberty to do whatever he deems necessary regarding land in the FCT, including parks,” he stated.
Regarding the recent demolition of Boulevard Park, Galadima clarified that the operators were duly notified before enforcement.
He pointed out that the park had long violated the terms of its allocation by operating in direct contravention of recreational policy.
“Boulevard Park was allocated for recreational purposes, but the activities taking place there are a complete violation of park policy in terms of operations. Boulevard has violated all the terms and conditions,” he said.
He further explained that monitoring of parks is primarily the responsibility of the Department of Parks and Recreation, adding that parks are expected to submit their conceptual designs for approval before commencing operations. However, lapses in monitoring had led to widespread abuse.
“The FCT is a creation of law, and lawlessness will not be tolerated. The development of the city is governed by law, and every operator must comply with the terms and conditions of their allocation,” Galadima warned.
Galadima assured that a ministerial committee has been established to review all allocations and uses of parks, with a view to restoring their original recreational purpose.
