In a strongly worded open letter that is already generating public attention, an Abuja resident, Mr. Oyugbo Jonah Osagie, has appealed to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, to halt the alleged allocation of Jabi Lake’s remaining shoreline to private developers.
The letter, titled “An Open Letter on the Preservation of Jabi Lake for Public Use,” praises the Minister’s infrastructure drive but warns that Abuja risks losing one of its most important natural assets if urgent action is not taken.
Mr. Osagie described Jabi Lake as “a central landmark and a major natural beauty of Abuja,” noting that for decades it has served as a rare green lung, a relaxation hub, and a shared public space for people across social classes. He recalled that the commissioning of the Jabi Lake Park nearly two decades ago and the establishment of the Jabi Lake Mall reinforced the idea that commercial development and public access can coexist.
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However, he expressed deep concern over what he described as the “alleged allocation of the remaining 60 percent of the lake’s shoreline to exclusive estate and private property developers,” warning that such a move could fence off the lake from ordinary citizens permanently.
According to him, the trend of converting public waterfronts into gated luxury communities is “alarming” and risks turning a shared natural vista into “a private backyard for the wealthy.”
Referencing global examples, Osagie urged the FCTA to adopt long-term urban planning that protects open spaces.
“New York City preserved Central Park at the heart of its dense cityscape. That was a visionary choice that ensured every resident, rich or poor, could enjoy nature. Abuja must do the same with Jabi Lake,” he wrote.
He added that allowing uncontrolled privatization would lead to short-lived structures instead of sustainable natural beauty that can serve generations.
The open letter outlines a three-point plea to the Minister:
- Immediate halt to further allocation of Jabi Lake’s shoreline to private developers.
- Development of a comprehensive master plan that reserves the entire lakefront strictly for public spaces such as amphitheaters, cultural centers, art installations, recreation parks, and restaurants.
- Urgent refurbishment and upgrading of the existing Jabi Lake Park to world-class standards.
Osagie argued that safeguarding the lake is not only an environmental necessity but a critical part of the Minister’s historic legacy.
While acknowledging Wike’s aggressive pursuit of infrastructural renewal across the capital, he stressed that preserving natural assets is equally important.
“Your legacy is being forged in concrete and steel. Let it also be cemented in the preservation of our natural landscapes for the public good,” he wrote.
He added that protecting Jabi Lake would ensure that future generations enjoy one of Abuja’s last remaining open, shared spaces.
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The open letter ends with a series of hashtags including #SaveJabiLake, #PublicSpacesForAll, #WikeProtectOurLakes, and #AbujaOurHeritage, signaling the start of what appears to be an emerging civic campaign in defense of the lake.
As residents continue to debate the fate of Jabi Lake, Mr. Osagie’s letter adds to growing calls for the FCT Administration to prioritize inclusive, environmentally conscious urban planning over private land allocations.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
