The Senior Pastor of Family Worship Centre in Abuja, Sarah Omakwu, has made an emotional appeal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, urging him not to hand over the Jabi Lake for private development.
In a video shared on her Instagram page on Sunday, Omakwu was seen kneeling at the pulpit as she passionately addressed the minister, pleading for the preservation of the area as a public space.
She emphasized the importance of Jabi Lake to residents, describing it as a vital location for exercise, small businesses, social gatherings, and leisure activities. According to her, the space serves as a hub where people connect, celebrate, and relax, especially young people.
Omakwu expressed concern over the gradual loss of public access to key locations in Abuja, referencing how areas like Aso Rock have become increasingly restricted over time. She urged the minister to ensure Jabi Lake remains accessible to everyone.
While acknowledging that she cannot challenge the minister directly, she appealed to him as a concerned citizen, asking that the land be protected for public use rather than allocated for private interests.
Despite her plea, the cleric commended Wike for ongoing infrastructure improvements across the Federal Capital Territory, noting that recent road projects have made movement within the city easier. However, she stressed that preserving Jabi Lake is of special importance.
Her appeal comes months after the Federal Capital Territory Administration entered into agreements with private firms, including Suburban Broadband Limited and Akida Hills Limited, to redevelop the lake area into a major recreational and tourism destination.
The minister had earlier explained that the initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance Abuja’s appeal as a center for leisure, tourism, and economic growth.
- IG | sarahomakwu