By Paul Effiong,
A private developer under the auspices of Wardiere Oakmount Development, has appealed to the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to embark on an extensive public sensitization campaign to educate residents and builders on the consequences of violating Abuja’s master plan.
The Founder and President of Wardiere Oakmount Development, Mr. Diamond Ilori, made the call during a world press conference held in Abuja on Tuesday. He emphasized that most cases of building infractions in the capital city could be avoided if people were adequately informed about the city’s planning guidelines and development control regulations.
According to Ilori, Abuja operates a unique documentation and approval system that differs significantly from other parts of the country, and ignorance of these procedures has often led to unapproved constructions. “The Abuja documentation style is different from every other part of our country,” he said. “We are committed to dotting our I’s and crossing our T’s when it comes to implementation, and we are working hand in hand with the government to ensure that every development aligns with the city’s approved regulations.”
He noted that Wardiere Oakmount Development is setting new standards in Nigeria’s property sector by executing projects that meet international benchmarks. “Our goal is to create world-class developments that can stand side by side with projects in Dubai and other advanced cities,” Ilori said. “We are not just building structures; we are building legacies that align with global best practices in design, sustainability, and community development.”
Ilori disclosed that the company’s upcoming projects will showcase modern architectural designs and smart living concepts that appeal to both local and international investors. “We are bringing investors, real estate experts, and industry leaders together to share insights on how Abuja can maintain its reputation as one of the most planned cities in Africa,” he added.
The developer also explained that ignorance, rather than deliberate negligence, may be responsible for the increasing cases of violations across the FCT. “We cannot completely rule out the fact that people sometimes don’t comply with regulations,” he said. “But I believe it’s not always because they don’t want to do the right thing; sometimes, they simply don’t know what to do.”
To address the challenge, Ilori urged the government to institutionalize a permanent structure for continuous education and engagement between regulatory authorities and the public. He proposed the establishment of an “Elected Regulatory Authority” within the FCTA that would be responsible for ensuring compliance and guiding developers through the city’s planning processes.
“This body should have a dedicated director who will oversee awareness campaigns, compliance training, and collaboration with developers,” he suggested. “When people understand the reason behind certain rules, they are more likely to follow them willingly.”
He commended the FCTA’s Department of Development Control for its ongoing efforts to preserve Abuja’s master plan but insisted that enforcement alone would not solve the problem without enlightenment. “Government must balance enforcement with education,” Ilori stated. “We need to sensitize the market, so builders and property owners know the implications of building outside approved layouts.”
Ilori concluded by reaffirming his company’s commitment to responsible urban development. “Wardiere Oakmount is not just a business; it’s a vision to redefine the face of real estate in Nigeria,” he said. “We are proud to contribute to a modern Abuja that reflects excellence, order, and sustainability.”
