By Oyekola Anuoluwapo
The establishment of the Taskforce by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike signals a renewed focus on the Land Swap initiative, initially conceived in 2012 during the Bala Muhammed-led FCTA under the Goodluck Jonathan government.
Despite facing a suspension during President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure, the initiative gained momentum in the Gwagwa district toward the end of that administration, spearheaded by ex-FCT Minister Muhammad Musa Bello.
However, the program encountered hurdles, with protests from FCT original inhabitants demanding the integration of affected communities.
There were also concerns about the possibility of it evolving into a land grabbing process. Undeterred by these challenges, Wike has taken proactive measures to breathe new life into the initiative.
The Minister directed the recently formed Taskforce, initially tasked with issuing Certificates of Occupancy for Mass Housing estates, to broaden its scope to include a comprehensive review of the Landswap initiative. This decision was prompted by the numerous concerns raised by stakeholders.
explained, “We have had a lot of complaints about Land Swap. You have been mandated to look at the agreement and consider its favorability to the government.”
Taskforce, led by Michael Chinda, the Minister’s Senior Special Assistant on Lands, Urban and Regional Planning, is expected to deliver results within a tight two-month timeframe.
This move reflects Wike’s commitment to addressing previous issues and ensuring the initiative aligns with government objectives.
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