Wike Rejects Pastor's Plea, Vows to Develop Jabi Lake

On Wednesday, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCTA), dismissed a plea from Pastor Sarah Omakwu of the Family Worship Centre, who had knelt to appeal for the preservation of Jabi Lake as a recreational area. Wike stated that emotional appeals would not influence policy decisions, emphasizing that the land belongs to the government and must be developed.

He explained that the administration inherited poorly managed arrangements regarding the lake, which had been allocated to a company for 15-16 years without development. Wike announced plans to revoke the allocation and seek new investors capable of developing the site, stressing that no land would be left undeveloped for extended periods.

He also addressed concerns about previous allocations and reiterated that emotional reactions would not override enforcement of development plans. Wike highlighted the government's commitment to transforming Jabi Lake into a major recreational hub and improving the investment climate in Abuja.