FCT Natives Seek Inclusion Of Communities In Abuja Master Plan Review

The Abuja Original Inhabitants Youths Empowerment Organisation (AOIYEO) has welcomed the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike’s plan to review the Abuja Master Plan, while calling for the full inclusion of the 858 indigenous communities in the process.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, the Executive Director of AOIYEO, Commandant Isaac David, described the proposed review as a historic opportunity to address long-standing concerns of the Original Inhabitants and ensure their interests are reflected in the future development of the capital city.

He said the organisation welcomed the minister’s disclosure that discussions with the original Japanese designers of Abuja have been scheduled for July as part of efforts to reassess and update the city’s master plan.

According to him, the announcement has generated renewed hope among indigenous communities who have for decades advocated greater inclusion in the planning and development of the Federal Capital Territory.

“Today, being June 1, 2026, we wish to appreciate the Honourable Minister of the FCT, Barr. Nyesom Wike, for standing for justice, equal rights, freedom from discrimination, dignity, political and administrative rights, and the protection of the human rights of Original Inhabitants in the Federal Capital Territory,” David said.

He noted that despite being the original custodians of the land, many indigenous communities have faced displacement, limited representation and restricted access to the benefits of urban development.

David disclosed that community leaders across the FCT have unanimously called for the inclusion of all 858 communities in the review process, arguing that their participation is essential for an equitable and sustainable development framework.

According to him, the review presents a rare opportunity to correct historical imbalances and ensure that development in Abuja is inclusive and people-centred.

“The voices of the Original Inhabitants must be heard, and their aspirations must be integrated into the planning process,” he stated.

He said AOIYEO has developed a policy framework titled Abuja Original Inhabitants Communities Development Policy and Integration Guidelines (OIs-CDPIG), which it hopes will be considered in the master plan review.

The framework, he explained, provides a structured roadmap for integrating indigenous communities into Abuja’s urban development strategy, while addressing cultural, social and economic challenges.

David said the document includes historical documentation of indigenous communities, socio-economic assessments, land ownership analysis and development needs profiling.

He stressed that land remains a central concern for indigenous people, describing it not only as an economic asset but also a core part of identity and heritage.

“Land is not merely an economic asset for our people; it is a source of identity, culture and heritage. Any development strategy must take this reality into account,” he said.

The proposal also recommends structured guidelines for land use, housing, infrastructure development, environmental sustainability, cultural preservation and improved access to social amenities.

David further outlined plans for a participation framework that would allow indigenous communities to be actively involved in decision-making processes affecting their future.

He said the proposed mechanism would ensure that communities are not passive observers but active participants in urban development.

He also called for the establishment of grievance-redress systems to handle disputes relating to land acquisition, resettlement and development-related issues.

According to him, the framework encourages collaboration between government, private developers and indigenous communities to ensure shared benefits and mutual understanding.

David urged the FCT Administration to set up dedicated desks for data collection, documentation and engagement with indigenous communities as part of the master plan review process.

He expressed optimism that the review could mark a turning point in the relationship between the government and indigenous communities in the FCT.

“We are optimistic that this process will usher in a new era of inclusion, justice and sustainable development,” he said, adding that the 858 communities are ready to contribute meaningfully to Abuja’s future development.

The group reaffirmed its commitment to working with the FCT Administration and other stakeholders to promote policies that support the welfare and development of Original Inhabitants in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).