Abuja Pastor kneels, appeals to Wike over planned Jabi Lake development

Senior Pastor of Family Worship Centre, Abuja, Sarah Omakwu, has made an emotional appeal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, urging him not to allocate the Jabi Lake Recreation Area for private development.

In a video shared on her Instagram page on Sunday, the cleric was seen kneeling as she passionately pleaded for the preservation of the popular public space.

> “I cannot fight the minister of the FCT… but I go on my knees as a mother in this land that Jabi Lake Recreation Centre should not be given to anybody,” she said.

‘A Space for Everyone’

Omakwu described the Jabi Lake Recreation Area as a vital hub for social interaction, exercise, and relaxation, especially for young people and families in Abuja.

According to her, the space serves as one of the few accessible recreational centres where residents can gather freely without restriction.

She also raised concerns over what she termed the gradual disappearance of public spaces in the nation’s capital, warning that such developments could limit community engagement and inclusiveness.

> “That is where people go for exercise… where people meet and hobnob… where young people go to,” she added.

Balancing Praise with Concern

While making her appeal, the pastor acknowledged ongoing infrastructural efforts by the FCT administration, commending Wike for road projects that have improved mobility across Abuja.

> “You have made my journey to my home a whole lot easier… but for this piece of land, I beg you, let it go,” she said.

FCTA’s Redevelopment Plan

The appeal comes amid moves by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to partner with private firms to redevelop the Jabi Lake area into a tourism and commercial hub.

The initiative, according to the minister, is aimed at boosting tourism, enhancing leisure infrastructure, and attracting investment into the capital city.

However, the proposal has now sparked public debate over the balance between urban development and the preservation of open, community-friendly spaces.