The Housing Development Advocacy Network (HDAN) has expressed concern over emerging discussions and proposals suggesting the conversion of Jabi Lake into residential development,

In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Festus Adebayo, the organisation warned that such a move would pose serious environmental, legal, and urban planning consequences for Abuja and future generations.

It emphasised that Jabi Lake remains a critical ecological and recreational asset within the Abuja Master Plan, and must be protected from unsustainable urban encroachment.

“Jabi Lake is not just a body of water; it is a vital environmental infrastructure that supports flood control, regulates urban temperature, preserves biodiversity, and provides essential recreational space for residents of the Federal Capital Territory,” he said.

HDAN noted that any attempt to convert the lake into residential housing would contradict established planning laws and undermine global best practices in sustainable urban development.

According to the organisation, cities across the world are increasingly prioritising preservation of natural assets such as lakes and waterfronts, integrating them into urban development frameworks rather than replacing them with built structures.

The organisation warned that tampering with Jabi Lake could lead to increased flooding risks, environmental degradation, loss of public recreational space, and significant reputational damage to Abuja as a planned capital city.

HDAN further stressed that while the demand for housing in Nigeria remains high, solutions must not come at the expense of critical environmental infrastructure. Instead, the organisation encouraged developers and policymakers to explore alternative approaches such as waterfront residential developments around the lake, eco-friendly housing models, and mixed-use developments that preserve the integrity of the natural environment while unlocking economic value.

HDAN called on the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), urban planners, environmental agencies, and all relevant stakeholders to uphold the integrity of the Abuja Master Plan and to resist any attempt to compromise critical natural assets.