Wike Directs Upgrade of Life Camp Recreation Park

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has announced plans to redevelop the abandoned recreation park at the Life Camp Roundabout into a modern leisure and sports centre as part of efforts to improve public recreational facilities across Abuja.

The planned project comes after the renovation of the Abuja City Gate, which has attracted residents and visitors since it was commissioned during activities marking President Bola Tinubu’s third anniversary in office.

The City Gate project also earned the FCT Administration recognition from the Office of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, under the Renewed Hope Initiative’s Green Nigeria Challenge.

Speaking after inspecting the Life Camp park on Monday, Wike said the award had encouraged the administration to invest more in green areas and public spaces within the capital city.

He said the City Gate project had shown the value of developing attractive public places where residents could relax and spend time with their families.

The minister expressed concern that the Life Camp recreation park had remained neglected for years despite its potential. He said previous administrations failed to develop the facility into a useful public space.

According to him, the FCT Administration plans to restore the park with modern infrastructure that will provide opportunities for recreation, sports, relaxation and other outdoor activities for people living in the area.

Wike directed officials of the Federal Capital Development Administration (FCDA) to begin work immediately on a suitable design for the project. He said the redevelopment would be handled as an emergency to speed up delivery.

He also disclosed that Abuja would host an annual New Year fireworks display at the City Gate beginning this year. He said the initiative is intended to give the nation’s capital a celebration similar to those held in major cities around the world.

The minister said the natural landscape of the Life Camp site makes it suitable for a modern recreational facility. He added that the administration would seek proposals from reputable firms before selecting the best design for the project.

According to Wike, the government is determined to deliver a facility that meets international standards while improving the quality of life for residents.

He said the redevelopment of the Life Camp park is part of the FCT Administration’s wider plan to expand green spaces, leisure centres and recreational facilities across Abuja.