By Abdullahi Lukman
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has announced plans to redevelop the abandoned recreation garden at the Life Camp Roundabout into a modern leisure and sports facility as part of efforts to expand public recreational spaces and improve residents’ quality of life in Abuja.
Wike also disclosed that the FCT Administration will, for the first time, host an annual New Year fireworks display at the Abuja City Gate beginning this year, with the aim of positioning the nation’s capital among cities that celebrate the start of the year with large-scale public displays.
The minister made the announcements on Monday after inspecting the neglected Life Camp recreation park, where he directed the Federal Capital Development Administration (FCDA) to immediately begin work on a redesign of the facility.
According to him, the project will be treated as an emergency to accelerate its delivery, adding that the administration intends to equip the park with modern sporting and recreational facilities for exercise, relaxation, tourism and other leisure activities.
Wike said the redevelopment follows the successful remodelling of the Abuja City Gate, which has emerged as a major recreational destination since its commissioning during activities marking President Bola Tinubu’s third anniversary in office.
He added that the FCT Administration recently received recognition from the Office of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, under the Renewed Hope Initiative’s Green Nigeria Challenge for transforming the City Gate and improving the capital’s green environment.
The minister said the recognition has strengthened the administration’s resolve to invest in additional parks, gardens and public recreational centres across the Federal Capital Territory.
Expressing concern over the condition of the Life Camp recreation park, Wike described the facility as a valuable public asset that had been neglected for years despite its potential to serve residents.
He said the administration would invite reputable firms to submit design proposals before selecting the most suitable contractor, assuring residents that the project would meet international standards while preserving the site’s natural landscape.
On the proposed New Year celebration, Wike said the annual fireworks display at the City Gate would become part of Abuja’s tourism and entertainment calendar, providing residents and visitors with a world-class experience at the start of each year.
The redevelopment of the Life Camp recreation park forms part of the FCT Administration’s broader urban renewal programme aimed at expanding green areas, improving public infrastructure, promoting environmental sustainability and enhancing recreational opportunities for residents across the capital.
