FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has announced plans by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to remodel the abandoned Life Camp Recreation Park in Abuja into a world-class recreational facility befitting Nigeria’s capital city.
Wike disclosed this on Monday after inspecting the site following a meeting with the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, in Abuja.
According to the minister, the decision was inspired by a certificate of commendation presented to the FCTA by the First Lady in recognition of its commitment to the Green Nigeria Challenge, an initiative under her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI).
He said the recognition reflected the administration’s efforts to transform green spaces into recreational centres while promoting environmental sustainability.
Wike cited the recent transformation of the Abuja City Gate as an example, describing it as a successful project initiated by the First Lady to bring the landmark in line with world-class standards.
“The remodelled City Gate, inaugurated on July 9, has become a major attraction and recreational hub, with residents visiting day and night,” he said.
The minister explained that the commendation had encouraged the administration to embark on more impactful projects, including the revival of the long-abandoned Life Camp Recreation Park.
“I made a promise that we would transform the recreation site at Life Camp, which has been abandoned for years. I came here today to assess what needs to be done. It is unfortunate that successive governments neglected this place.
“I am impressed with what I have seen, and the topography is suitable. We will engage the best company for the project. Although Julius Berger will be invited, we will also engage one or two other firms to submit alternative designs so we can compare and select the best option,” he said.
Wike commended the First Lady for drawing attention to the importance of recreational spaces, noting that such facilities improve residents’ quality of life.
He said the upgraded park would feature modern facilities for sports, relaxation, photography and other leisure activities comparable to those found in developed countries.
The minister added that he had directed the Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) to invite Julius Berger and other construction firms to submit proposals for the redevelopment of the park.
He disclosed that the project would be executed on an emergency basis with a target completion period of one year.
Speaking on the remodelled Abuja City Gate, Wike announced that it would, for the first time, serve as the venue for the Federal Capital Territory’s New Year’s Eve countdown celebration.
He said the event, to be facilitated by the First Lady, would feature fireworks and other festivities similar to celebrations held in major cities around the world.
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“There will be fireworks, and residents will gather to count down into the New Year. By the grace of God, this year we will celebrate at the City Gate just as it is done in other developed countries,” he said.
Wike reaffirmed the commitment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to restoring public confidence through visible infrastructure and environmental development projects.
The First Lady on Monday presented the FCT Minister with a certificate of commendation for transforming Abuja’s City Gate into a major recreational and environmental landmark.
She also praised the FCTA’s environmental initiatives under the Green Nigeria Challenge and urged state governments across the country to emulate the administration by engaging young people in environmental protection programmes.
