By Pius Awunah
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has reassured the restoration and protection of Abuja’s green areas, warning developers and property owners against violating landscaping and environmental regulations.
FCTA’s Director of Development Control, Mukhtar Galadima, made this known recently during a monitoring exercise, noting that many developers had either neglected or encroached on designated green zones within the city.
According to him, the administration would intensify its environmental enforcement drive as part of efforts to preserve Abuja’s master plan and maintain its reputation as one of Africa’s most planned and eco-friendly cities.
“The FCTA will not allow individuals or corporate bodies to distort the original design of the Federal Capital City.
“Landscaping is an integral part of the city’s development plan, and all property owners are required to adhere strictly to these standards.
“We have observed that some people deliberately convert green areas meant for recreation and aesthetics into construction sites or parking spaces. This is unacceptable, “he said.
Galadima stressed that the administration had embarked on an inspection tour of several districts, including Wuse, Maitama, Garki, and Asokoro, to identify areas where landscaping requirements were being ignored.
He vowed that the department would not hesitate to take decisive action against any developer found to have breached the rules, stressing that such violations contribute to environmental degradation, poor air quality, and loss of urban greenery.
The director disclosed that landscaping enhances the beauty of the city, reduces erosion, and improves environmental sustainability.
He, therefore, urged residents and property developers to take ownership of maintaining the natural aesthetics of their surroundings.
“Every building approval in Abuja comes with landscaping specifications.
“Developers are expected to complete landscaping before obtaining a certificate of fitness or occupancy.
“We have found cases where people develop structures without providing the required greenery, and this contradicts the approved design.
“We will begin enforcing sanctions, including possible demolition of illegal structures within green areas,” the director maintained.
He added that the Department of Development Control was working in collaboration with the Parks and Recreation Department, the Abuja Environmental Protection Board, and the Urban and Regional Planning Department to ensure synergy in enforcing environmental regulations.
Galadima warned that the FCTA would continue to remove all illegal constructions within parks, green belts, and undeveloped lands.
“We have seen cases where people build restaurants, shops, and even residential structures on spaces designated for parks or open gardens.
“Such activities not only deface the city’s landscape but also threaten ecological balance.
“The FCTA will not compromise on this,” Galadima warned.
He urged residents to desist from cutting down trees or converting landscaped areas for commercial purposes without authorisation, noting that such acts violate the environmental sustainability goals of the territory.
He said the FCTA was considering incentives for compliant developers and corporate organisations that contribute to the enhancement of green spaces across the city.
