Homeowners at Dr Sam Nujoma Estate in the Galadimawa area of Abuja have appealed to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to intervene in what they described as persistent security threats, alleged assault, and extortion by the estate developer, El Salem Nigeria Limited.

In a petition submitted to the Legal Secretariat of the FCT Administration (FCTA), the Chairman of the Residents Association, Mr. Ifeanyi Echefu, stated that homeowners legally purchased their plots and developed their properties, stressing that they are property owners and not tenants.

According to Echefu, officials of El Salem Nigeria Limited have allegedly refused to relinquish control of the estate despite having exhausted available land for sale. He further accused the company of using private security personnel to intimidate, harass, and assault residents.

Dispute Over Estate Ownership and Management

Echefu explained that the estate is situated on Plot 21, Cadastral Zone C17, Industrial Area II, Abuja. He noted that the land was originally allocated to the African University of Science and Technology (AUST) in 2007 before a sublease arrangement was entered into with El Salem Nigeria Limited.

He alleged that El Salem subsequently renamed the development as Dr Sam Nujoma Estate and engaged eight additional developers without obtaining the required approval from the FCTA.

The residents’ association further claimed that the land was designated in the FCTA development plan for student hostel accommodation and not for residential estate development.

Residents Seek Land Titles and Government Intervention

The homeowners urged the FCT Minister to facilitate the issuance of Rights of Occupancy (R-of-O) and Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-O) to legitimate property owners within the estate.

They also called for urgent government intervention to resolve the lingering dispute and ensure the safety and security of residents.

FCTA Advises Police Action

In a related development, the Director of Investigation and Prosecution in the FCTA Legal Department, Joseph Eriki, reportedly advised the Nigeria Police Force Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to arrest officials of El Salem Nigeria Limited and any individual claiming approval for land use outside its original educational purpose.

Eriki also accused the African University of Science and Technology of altering the approved land use without obtaining government authorization.

AUST Reacts

Responding to the controversy, the Country Director of the African University of Science and Technology, Mr. Adekoya Seyi, acknowledged the dispute and said efforts were underway to resolve the matter.

“We are not unaware of the issues. Discussions are ongoing and will soon be resolved. However, I am not going to yield to the demands of the FCTA Legal Department Director,” he said.

Efforts to obtain comments from the Executive Director of El Salem Nigeria Limited, Mr. Michael Onyebuchi, were unsuccessful as calls and messages sent to him were not returned at the time of filing this report.

The post Homeowners Petition Wike Over Alleged Threats, Extortion at Abuja’s Dr Sam Nujoma Estate appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Acting Director General of FEMD, Engr. Abdulrahman Mohammed, explained that water levels in the area are rising fast. He said the road is likely to flood soon.

“This road will be flooded. Closing it now is a step to save lives and property,” he said.

He asked residents to be patient and use other routes for now. The department had been monitoring the water level since June before deciding to act.

Mohammed also warned motorists not to drive into flooded roads. “Wait for the water to go down before driving through,” he advised.

Residents can report emergencies by calling the toll-free number 112.

The closed slip road connects Goodluck Jonathan Expressway with Ring Road 2. This area has a history of flooding. In 2019, Mr. Tony Okecheme, Director of Finance at the FCT High Court, died in a flash flood at this same location.

Officials from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), including the Head of Abuja Operations, Mr. Zakari Abubakar, and representatives from the Department of Development Control, were present during the closure.

FEMD urged all residents to stay alert and follow safety guidelines during the rainy season.

The post FCT Emergency Agency Closes Galadimawa Road Over Flood Risk appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Navigating the housing market in Nigeria’s capital can be daunting, especially for residents and new settlers seeking budget-friendly accommodation options.

Housing TV Africa explores the top 10 most budget-friendly areas in Abuja, helping you find a cheap, comfortable, livable, and convenient home.

Karu
On the outskirts of Abuja, Karu offers a vibrant atmosphere with various apartments, bungalows, and shared accommodations at competitive prices. Its easy access to the city Centre makes it ideal for those seeking affordability and a lively environment. The reconstructed Keffi/Lafia/Mararaba road has made this area attractive to new settlers within the city. Estimated rent for a 3-bedroom apartment here is ₦700,000 – ₦1,000,000 per year.

Idu
Idu caters to those prioritising affordability above all else. This industrial cluster is home to Base University, National Open University, Nile University, Cocacola, many Industries and housing estates. It boasts some of the most affordable housing options in Abuja, focusing on basic accommodation needs. Here, the estimated rent for a 3-bedroom apartment is ₦700,000 – ₦800,000 per year.

Lugbe
Lugbe is rapidly developing with a growing population and offers a range of affordable housing options, including apartments within estates and self-contained units. The area is well-connected to other parts of Abuja with the 10-lane Abuja Airport Road running through it, making it a convenient and budget-friendly choice for residents. Here, the estimated rent for a 3-bedroom apartment is ₦1,000,000 – ₦1,500,000 per year.

Kubwa
A perennial favourite, Kubwa boasts a well-established infrastructure and a strong sense of community. It is noted for its rocky nature and is home to the FCT NYSC Orientation Camp. It offers a variety of apartments, bungalows, and self-contained units at competitive rates, ideal for first-time renters and buyers seeking affordability. Here, the estimated rent for a 3-bedroom apartment is ₦1,500,000 – ₦2,000,000 per year.

Dawaki
Dawaki, under the Bwari Area Council administration, is a primarily residential area situated about 20 minutes from the Central Business District (CBD). The Murtala Mohammed Expressway provides easy access, and the district boasts a decent supply of water and electricity. Its rapid growth attracts people seeking affordable accommodation. Here, the estimated rent for a 3-bedroom apartment is ₦1,500,000 – ₦2,200,000 per year.

Kuje
Kuje, the headquarters of Kuje Area Council is located a few kilometers away from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Abuja. It offers a peaceful atmosphere with affordable housing options. It is ideal for those who prioritize a quiet environment and don’t mind being slightly further away from the city centre. Here, the estimated rent for a 3-bedroom apartment is ₦1,500,000 – ₦2,000,000 per year.

Nyanya
With its proximity to Asokoro, one of Abuja’s most luxurious neighbourhoods. Nyanya is a thriving commercial hub that offers a unique blend of affordability and a bustling market atmosphere. It boasts a variety of apartments and self-contained units at attractive prices, making it ideal for entrepreneurs and those who enjoy the energy of a commercial area. Abuja residents code-named this area the Lagos of Abuja because of its heavy vehicular traffic. Here, the estimated rent for a 3-bedroom apartment is ₦1500,000 – ₦2,000,000 per year.

Lokogoma
Lokogoma Located approximately 17 minutes from the CBD, is serviced by the Lokogoma Expressway, connecting it with other neighborhoods like Jabi and Idu. The area offers a variety of housing options at competitive rates and is noted for its many housing estates. Here, the estimated rent for a 3-bedroom apartment is ₦2,000,000 – ₦2,500,000 per year.

Galadimawa
This middle-class-dominated District, located about 17 minutes from the CBD of Abuja, offers a balance between affordability and convenience. A three-bedroom flat with utilities typically ranges from ₦2,500,000 to ₦3,500,000 per year and estimated rent for a 3-bedroom non-serviced apartment is ₦2,200,000 – ₦3,000,000 per year.

Karshi
Escape the hustle and bustle in Karshi, a serene getaway on the outskirts of Abuja. This area offers a peaceful environment with a range of affordable housing options, making it a budget-friendly haven for nature lovers seeking tranquillity. Here, the estimated rent for a 3-bedroom apartment is ₦2,00,000 – ₦3000,000 per year.

Navigating the housing market in Abuja can be challenging, but with this guide, you’re equipped with knowledge of the most affordable neighbourhoods in the city. From the vibrant atmosphere of Karu to the peaceful serenity of Karshi, each area offers a unique blend of affordability and convenience. Happy house hunting!

The post Top 10 Areas to Find Cheap Accommodation In Abuja appeared first on Housing TV Africa.