In line with its commitment to stakeholder engagement and inclusive urban development, Federal Housing Authority held an interactive meeting with the allottees of the 32 corner shops along Road 1421, Gwarinpa II Estate, Abuja.

The meeting, held on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at FHA Shopping Mall premises on 3rd Avenue, Gwarinpa II Estate, Abuja, was convened to discuss the proposed redevelopment of the neighborhood center in line with the Federal Capital Territory Administration's (FCTA) urban renewal policy.

Speaking during the stakeholder’s engagement, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Hon. Oyetunde Ojo, represented by the Executive Director, Estate Services, Arc. Ezekiel Nya-Etok noted that the redevelopment initiative was in line with FCTA's urban renewal practices, adding that corner shops across Abuja are to be replaced by more structured commercial facilities.

" This is a partnership founded on openness, mutual benefit, and a shared conviction that we can honour our roots while building a remarkable future. In light of the FCT Administration's adoption of globally accepted urban renewal practices, Federal Housing Authority is mandated to adopt them. It has begun the redevelopment of all corner shops within its estate. This is a government policy that we must adhere to."

The ED noted that the project aims to transform the existing cluster of 32 corner shops into a fully functional, all-inclusive shopping mall that would enhance property values while safeguarding the interests of existing allottees.

Arc. Nya-Etok emphasized that all existing shop owners would be guaranteed allocation of shops in the new mall at no cost, with transparency and stakeholder participation guiding the allocation process.

According to him, “the Letter of Allocation to be issued would constitute an irrevocable offer, thereby protecting you from any cost on shops after construction."

The ED noted that the proposed redevelopment is a strategic joint venture between AMK Engineering Limited, a private sector engineering and property development firm and Federal Housing Authority, the government-backed agency responsible for housing and infrastructure development.

He said the project will be situated on approximately 3,600 square meters of land and is envisioned as a vibrant commercial hub designed to accommodate retail shops, anchor stores, food courts, and other support facilities spread across multiple floors.

According to him, the proposed complex would comprise about 174 shops ranging from 17 to 36 square meters, in addition to two anchor shops measuring approximately 156 square meters each.

Speaking further, he stated that the anchor stores are expected to attract major businesses and increase commercial activities in the area, thereby enhancing the viability of the development and boosting returns for existing allottees.

Stakeholders at the meeting were shown visual presentations of the proposed shopping mall design, showcasing site plans, floor layouts, parking areas, and landscaping concepts aimed at creating a family-friendly, climate-responsive commercial environment.

During the question-and-answer session, some stakeholders raised concerns regarding ownership documentation, shop allocation, relocation timelines, business continuity and the overall viability of the proposed development.

Responding, Arc. Nya-Etok said the Authority would explore Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms to mediate between original allottees and current owners with unresolved documentation issues. He disclosed that while the Authority cannot alter ownership records without due process, it would facilitate dialogue among parties to ensure amicable resolutions and prevent avoidable litigation.

He further stated that he would personally attend to affected individuals to address title perfection and documentation challenges.

Earlier on in the meeting, the General Manager, Partnership and Zonal Coordination, Arc. Peter Okpanachi informed the stakeholders that the proposed redevelopment is expected to be completed within 18 months, to ensure quality delivery and avoid unnecessary delays. He also noted that the Authority had proposed a 90-day window for allottees to make the necessary arrangements to vacate their shops ahead of the commencement of redevelopment.

He assured the allottees that the guiding principles of the redevelopment would be equity, fairness and transparency, noting that existing owners would be accommodated according to the size of their current holdings. He added that details of the allocation process would be worked out in consultation with representatives of the allottees to ensure inclusiveness and mutual understanding.

The interactive session ended on a cordial note, with the stakeholders commending the Management for creating a platform for dialogue and reaffirming their commitment to working with the Authority to successfully realize the project.