A former Southeast spokesperson to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Chairman of the Forum of Former Members of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Mr. Josef Onoh, has expressed concern over the steady conversion of designated green areas in Abuja into residential and commercial developments.
In a statement, Onoh said the trend poses a serious threat to the Abuja Master Plan of 1979, a globally recognised framework created to guide orderly development, environmental balance and long-term sustainability in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
He recalled that the master plan, developed by International Planning Associates and refined by renowned architect Kenzo Tange, deliberately set aside about one-third of the FCT’s landmass as green belts, parks, buffer zones and open spaces. According to him, these areas were designed to regulate temperature, control flooding, improve air quality, protect biodiversity and provide recreational spaces, in line with Abuja’s original vision as a “garden city.”
Onoh noted that recent years have seen increased construction activities in areas initially designated as green zones, particularly in districts such as Guzape, Maitama, Wuse, Katampe and Kado. He said the developments call for a careful and transparent review to ensure strict compliance with the Abuja Master Plan and existing environmental laws.
He warned that the continuous loss of green spaces could have far-reaching environmental and social consequences, including rising urban temperatures, increased flood risks, deteriorating air quality and a decline in residents’ overall quality of life. He also referenced global standards, pointing out that the World Health Organization recommends a minimum of nine square metres of green space per resident.
Onoh stressed that urban development in the FCT must align with Nigeria’s broader environmental and climate commitments, particularly efforts aimed at addressing climate change and promoting sustainable cities.
Calling on President Bola Tinubu, he urged the Federal Government to review land allocations affecting green areas, carry out a comprehensive audit of compliance with the Abuja Master Plan and prioritise the protection and restoration of open spaces where necessary.
Drawing from his experience as a former Commissioner and Executive Chairman of the Enugu Capital Territory Development Authority (ECTDA), Onoh said strict enforcement of master plans and preservation of green areas can deliver positive environmental and social outcomes. He cited Enugu State’s recognition for environmental cleanliness and sustainability initiatives as an example.
He also referenced other African capitals, including Nairobi, Kigali and Cape Town, as cities that have successfully preserved and expanded urban green spaces through deliberate policies and committed leadership.
Onoh appealed to relevant authorities, lawmakers, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to collaborate in safeguarding Abuja’s green heritage and upholding the original vision of the nation’s capital for the benefit of present and future generations.
Onoh Raises Alarm Over Conversion of Abuja Green Areas, Urges Review of Land Allocations
