The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has appointed veteran town planner Mukhtar Usman Galadima as his Senior Special Assistant on Development Control and Planning. The appointment, announced on Tuesday, takes immediate effect.
A statement issued by Wike’s spokesman, Lere Olayinka, described Galadima as a highly experienced professional who spent more than 30 years working in major planning and development agencies within the FCT Administration. His long career includes roles in the Department of Development Control under the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council and the Satellite Towns Development Agency.
Galadima, who retired from the civil service in November, previously served as the Director of the Department of Development Control, a position he held from 2016 until his retirement. During his time as director, he oversaw several important development policies, supervised major planning decisions, and worked on enforcement actions aimed at preserving the Abuja Master Plan.
According to the statement, he also served on several high-level committees set up by past FCT ministers. These include the Abuja Master Plan Restoration Task Team, which was responsible for addressing distortions in the original plan for the capital city. He also worked on the ministerial committees on revoked land titles and the review of land use policies.
Wike’s decision to appoint Galadima comes at a time when the FCT Administration is intensifying efforts to restore order in Abuja’s development process. Since assuming office in 2023, the FCT Minister has carried out several reforms aimed at strengthening urban planning, removing illegal structures, and ensuring that development in the capital city follows approved guidelines.
In recent months, Wike has repeatedly stated that Abuja must be properly organized to function as the nation’s capital. He has emphasised strict enforcement of development control laws and warned that illegal buildings, unapproved estates, and violations of land regulations will not be tolerated. The appointment of Galadima is expected to support these ongoing efforts, especially as the FCT continues to experience rapid population growth and increasing pressure on infrastructure.
Urban planners have long argued that Abuja’s expansion needs stronger regulation to prevent overcrowding, traffic problems, flooding, and environmental damage. Many experts believe that with his deep institutional knowledge and long service record, Galadima is well-positioned to contribute to these goals.
The FCT Administration has not yet released details about Galadima’s specific duties in his new role, but officials say he will be working closely with the minister to ensure that urban development aligns with Abuja’s long-term planning goals.
The statement from the minister’s office stressed that Galadima’s experience and proven track record were key factors in his selection.