A fresh call for urban renewal near the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja has sparked debate in the Senate, following a proposal by Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi, representing Ebonyi North Senatorial District. The senator described the aging structures surrounding the airport as “eyesores” and urged the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, to relocate the affected communities.
During a Senate plenary session, Nwebonyi emphasized the importance of enhancing Nigeria’s global image, arguing that the unsightly condition of the airport’s surroundings does not reflect the status of the nation’s capital. He called for urgent action to modernize the area and extend infrastructural development.
“These buildings are the first impression many visitors get of our country,” the senator noted. “We must ensure that what they see reflects progress and order.”
However, the proposal met resistance from Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who cautioned against the displacement of long-established communities. He stressed the need for a more inclusive approach that balances development goals with the rights of residents.
The debate underscores the ongoing tension between rapid urban development and community preservation in Abuja. While some lawmakers push for modernization to attract investment and improve the city’s image, others warn against disregarding the social and economic impact on residents.
As discussions continue, all eyes remain on the FCT administration for a possible response to the senator’s call and the broader implications for urban policy in the capital.
