By John Moses
Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has signed a landmark development agreement with MAG International Links Limited for the Abuja City Walk, an ambitious mixed-use urban project inspired by Dubai’s iconic City Walk.
The agreement, unveiled during a signing ceremony in Abuja, includes strict timelines and a revocation clause to ensure timely delivery. The first phase is expected to be completed by May 2026, coinciding with the third anniversary of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, who presided over the event, emphasised the government’s zero-tolerance stance on land speculation, vowing to prioritise tangible development over land hoarding.
“Too many times, people have acquired land under the guise of development, only to become speculators. This time, we’re not going down that road,” Wike declared. “If MAG fails to meet the agreed milestones, we will revoke the land allocation without hesitation.”
To reinforce accountability, Wike personally led FCTA officials to inspect the Abuja Technology Village site, which has remained largely undeveloped for two decades.
The Abuja City Walk will span 200 hectares and feature residential, commercial, retail, healthcare, and hospitality zones—blending modern architecture with Nigerian cultural identity. The project aims to transform Abuja into a leading investment hub and urban destination in West Africa.
MAG International’s Executive Director, Dr Kassim Gidado, hailed the FCTA’s hands-on approach, noting that it had boosted investor confidence. “We aim to surpass the Dubai model by embedding Nigerian cultural elements and advanced healthcare infrastructure into the design,” he said.
He added that the project, wholly Nigerian-owned, aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to revitalise urban infrastructure and attract foreign investment.
Foundation works for the Abuja City Walk are scheduled to commence by August 2025, with support from the FCTA to eliminate red tape and ensure uninterrupted progress.
