The Nuwalege community in Abuja, located along the Airport Road, may face imminent demolition to make way for the expansion of the presidential fleet plot, according to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) administration.
This development comes in response to a request from the Nigerian Air Force, whose airbase falls within the designated area for the fleet expansion.
“So, the minister, in his wisdom, requested them to allow the FCT administration to handle it because it’s the responsibility of the FCT administration. The Nigerian Air Force approached the Department of Development Control on their desire.
“So, as part of our responsibility, we have to do what you call a community and citizens engagement which is why we are here today to discuss with the community and to tell them of our intention, because it will be unfair to just bring the machine here and start removing their houses.
“So, we visited the chiefs at his palace to meet him, and we told him our reason for coming to this place today,” Daily Trust quoted Galadima saying.
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, represented by Director Tpl Mukhtar Galadima, met with community leaders on Tuesday to explain the situation. He emphasized the importance of accommodating the project, highlighting security concerns posed by the community’s proximity to the airbase.
Approximately 150 to 200 houses and attached commercial stores are earmarked for demolition. However, the question of compensation for affected residents remains unclear. Galadima indicated that some form of compensation has been mentioned, but further investigation is needed to verify its distribution and adequacy.
He stated, “We are going to conduct further investigation… to find out if compensation has been paid, to who and when? We will then discuss… whether there was any compensation that ascertained their claims…”
The FCT administration also plans wider consultations with the Nigerian Air Force and community leaders to determine the precise scope of the relocation and address any concerns.
While recognizing the potential disruption this project presents, the government maintains that it is necessary for national security and the smooth operation of the presidential fleet. The community now faces the challenge of adapting to this significant change and ensuring fair compensation for their displacement.
