Festac Town, once hailed as one of Africa’s largest and most organized estates when it opened in 1977, is facing a serious environmental threat. Original buffer zones designed to mitigate flooding, absorb wastewater, and provide greenery are now heavily encroached by commercial shops, mosques, mechanic workshops, petrol stations, and markets. Residents and environmentalists are warning that the estate is now at risk of flooding, pollution, and structural damage.

Pa Isibor Ehimen, who lived in Festac as a young artist, recalls the estate’s glory days. “I have never seen such beauty and organized living anywhere else in Nigeria,” he said. But today, the estate’s original charm has faded, with shanties and makeshift structures replacing the carefully planned residential areas.

Buffer zones, initially designed as windbreakers and environmental safeguards, have been drastically compromised. “Before, you could not see neighboring areas from Festac because the trees in the buffer zones offered full coverage,” said Ademola Onitiri, a concerned resident. “Now, those zones are filled with buildings, motor parks, and markets. It’s a disaster waiting to happen.”

Residents report that drainage systems are blocked by construction along the buffer zones, leading to frequent flooding even during minor rains. “We have dug the drainages countless times, yet water still accumulates because these structures disrupt the flow,” said Chimezie Agumbah. The encroachment not only threatens flood control but also undermines the ecosystem, as the green zones help filter air, absorb carbon dioxide, and maintain a balance within the urban environment.

The Federal Housing Authority (FHA), tasked with regulating construction in Festac Town, has taken some action in the past. During the tenure of former MD Gbenga Ashafa, over 500 illegal shops were demolished. However, residents say the current FHA leadership under Oyetunde Oladimeji Ojo, appointed in February 2024, has done little to prevent further encroachments. “Illegal structures continue to sprout despite assurances,” said Yakubu Inuwa, a resident and immigration officer.

Environmentalists warn that the loss of buffer zones increases vulnerability to extreme weather events. “Festac will be submerged by flood if these green zones are gone,” said Abidemi Olayemi, an agronomist. Esther Obeya, an environmentalist based in Abuja, noted that improper waste and rainwater management could accelerate soil erosion, building collapse, and health hazards.

Amuwo-Odofin Local Government, where Festac Town is located, has raised concerns with the FHA about the encroachments, but residents report that responses are slow. Road rehabilitation projects on 2nd and 7th Avenue are expected to improve traffic flow and mobility, yet the effectiveness will depend on clearing buffer zones of illegal constructions.

Residents urge the government to take immediate measures, including continued demolition of unauthorized structures, enforcement of the master plan, and restoration of green spaces. “The buffer zones are essential not only for flood control but also for preserving Festac Town’s status as one of Africa’s largest planned estates,” said Esther Obeya.

Without decisive action, experts warn that Festac Town faces compounded environmental risks, including flooding, pollution, and infrastructure collapse. Residents, urban planners, and environmentalists continue to call on the FHA and Lagos State government to act before the estate suffers irreversible damage.

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Abuja’s green spaces  the parks, open fields, and natural reserves that give the city its scenic beauty  are disappearing at an alarming rate.

Fresh findings show widespread encroachment on these protected areas in some of the capital’s most exclusive districts, including Guzape, Maitama, Wuse, Katampe, Kado, and the Central Business District.

Many of the spaces, originally marked for recreation, conservation, and environmental balance under the 1979 Abuja Master Plan, are now being converted into residential buildings, commercial outlets, and other developments.

Experts warn that these violations extend beyond green spaces. Waterways, drainage channels, and power line corridors are also being obstructed, raising the risk of flooding, health hazards, and infrastructural breakdowns.

“This is a disaster in waiting,” an urban planner told reporters. “Green areas exist to protect the environment, prevent flooding, and keep the city livable. Ignoring the master plan will put residents at risk.”

Concerned residents have called on the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to enforce the Abuja Master Plan, stop illegal constructions, and restore affected areas before irreversible damage is done.

Source: Daily Trust

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During a peaceful protest on Monday, the traders expressed their anger over the ongoing development. Many believe the new shops violate the original design of the market.

Mr. Prosper Chinedu, one of the traders, said the new buildings are blocking key access points. According to him, this poses a serious risk in case of an emergency.

“If a fire breaks out, fire trucks will not be able to enter the market,” he warned. “We cannot allow this to continue. The current market leaders are not protecting our interests. They should step down, and a new election must be held.”

Another trader, Chief Samson Eze, voiced similar concerns. He said traders are rarely consulted before major decisions are made. This includes decisions on increased service charges and the construction of new stalls.

“We have been enduring poor representation for too long,” Eze said. “Now, with the new buildings taking up parking space, customers will have nowhere to park. That means fewer people will come to shop.”

The traders are urging the FCT administration to investigate the matter. They want the construction halted and a fresh leadership election conducted. They also want to be included in future planning decisions that affect their businesses.

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