FCTA revokes all Abuja park licenses, orders operators to reapply amid crackdown on violations

Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has canceled all park licenses in Abuja, directing operators to resubmit documentation for a thorough review and potential reallocation due to widespread breaches of operational policies.

Director of Development Control, Mukhtar Galadima, revealed this during a press interview addressing the recent demolition of Boulevard Park in Maitama, Abuja.

“The FCT Minister acted on a memo from the Directors of Parks and Recreation and Lands, citing significant violations in park management across the territory,” Galadima stated.

He explained that park operators must now submit their documents to the Parks and Recreation Department for fresh scrutiny.

“If they meet the terms and conditions, they’ll be reallocated. Operators must respond, submit their documents, and if approved, they can regain access to their parks,” he said.

Galadima stressed that the action is not targeted harassment but a critical measure to enforce compliance with urban policies governing park operations.

“There’s nothing like witch-hunting. All park allocations were withdrawn over consistent violations. The Minister holds authority to regulate land use in the FCT, including public parks,” he affirmed.

On the demolition of Boulevard Park, Galadima noted that operators were duly notified, and enforcement followed legal protocols. He highlighted that the park had strayed from its designated recreational purpose.

“Boulevard Park was approved for recreation, but its operations violated every part of the policy. What’s happening there is a complete departure from the park’s intended use,” he explained.

Galadima added that the Department of Parks and Recreation is tasked with overseeing park activities to ensure adherence to regulations. However, he noted that lapses in monitoring had led to widespread policy violations, as many parks failed to submit required conceptual designs for approval.

“The FCT is governed by law, and lawlessness won’t be tolerated. Every park operator must comply with all terms and conditions attached to their allocation,” he asserted.

He further disclosed that a ministerial committee has been formed to review all park allocations, ensuring their use aligns with recreational objectives.

“This is about restoring order and legality to park operations in the FCT,” Galadima concluded.