Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has directed the immediate redevelopment of the abandoned recreation park at the Life Camp Roundabout in Abuja as part of efforts to expand public leisure facilities across the capital city.
The directive was given on Monday after the minister inspected the site and announced plans to turn it into a modern centre for recreation, sports and relaxation.
The planned project comes after the remodelling of the Abuja City Gate, which has attracted visitors since it was commissioned during activities marking President Bola Tinubu’s third year in office.
The FCT Administration also received recognition from the Office of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, through the Renewed Hope Initiative’s Green Nigeria Challenge for improving the environment around the City Gate.
Speaking after inspecting the abandoned park, Wike said the award had encouraged the administration to continue investing in public spaces and green areas that will improve the living conditions of residents. He said the success recorded at the City Gate showed that properly managed recreational centres could become places where people gather for relaxation and tourism.
The minister described the poor condition of the Life Camp park as a result of years of neglect by previous administrations. He said the facility had great potential but was left unused despite its location and natural landscape.
According to Wike, the redevelopment will include modern recreational and sporting facilities that will serve people living within the area and other parts of Abuja. He said the completed park would provide a safe environment for exercise, family outings, relaxation and other social activities while also creating attractive spaces for visitors.
He directed officials of the Federal Capital Development Administration to begin work on a new design for the project without delay. The minister said the assignment should be treated as an urgent project because residents deserve improved public facilities and a better environment.
Wike also disclosed plans to introduce an annual New Year fireworks display at the Abuja City Gate beginning later this year. He said the programme is part of efforts to make the nation’s capital compare with other major cities around the world that organise public celebrations to welcome the New Year.
The minister expressed satisfaction with the natural features of the Life Camp site and said the government would invite reputable companies to submit different designs before selecting the most suitable proposal. He explained that comparing several options would help ensure the project meets international standards and is completed within a reasonable time.
The redevelopment of the Life Camp recreation park forms part of the Federal Capital Territory Administration’s wider plan to improve public infrastructure, expand green spaces and provide more recreational centres for residents across Abuja.