Sarah Omakwu, Senior Pastor of Family Worship Centre in Abuja, has appealed to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, over plans involving the Jabi Lake Recreation Area.
Her appeal came on Sunday via a video shared on Instagram, where she was seen kneeling while speaking about the future of the public space.
The Jabi Lake Recreation Area in Abuja has long served as a social and economic hub for residents, attracting families, traders, and young people daily.
Meanwhile, concerns have grown following government-backed plans to upgrade parts of the facility through private partnerships.
In February, the FCT Administration entered agreements with Suburban Broadband Limited and Akida Hills Limited to redevelop the area into a modern tourism and leisure hub.
Appeal Over Public Access To Jabi Lake
In her message, Omakwu said she could not confront the minister directly but chose to make a personal appeal for public interest.
“I cannot fight the minister of the FCT. I cannot. But I go on my knees as a mother in this land that Jabi Lake Recreation Centre should not be given to anybody.”
She explained that the space plays a central role in daily life for many Abuja residents.
“That is where people go for exercise. That is where people sell. That is where people meet and hobnob and get married.”
The pastor added that the area also serves recreational and social needs for young people across the city.
“That is where people go to watch games. That is where young people go to. I beg you, Mr Minister, in the name of God, as a mother, to not sell that land to anybody.”
She also expressed concern about what she described as a gradual reduction of public spaces in the Federal Capital Territory.
According to her, residents already face limited access to open recreational areas in key parts of Abuja.
“I can’t fight you. But I can beg you in the name of God Almighty that that land be left for everybody. I beg you. Please heed our call.”
The Federal Capital Territory Administration has defended its development partnerships, saying the upgrades are intended to improve tourism and economic activity.
Officials say the Jabi Lake project is part of wider plans to modernise Abuja’s leisure infrastructure through private investment.
However, the project has continued to generate public debate, especially around access and ownership of urban recreational spaces.
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