The University of Abuja Alumni Association has formally protested the proposed revocation of a significant portion of land allocated to the institution, urging the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to rescind the decision and adopt a more constructive engagement process.
In a strongly worded letter addressed to the FCT minister, the association expressed “grave concern” over the recent reduction of the university’s land allocation from over 11,000 hectares to 4,000 hectares, an action the group described as “unlawful and “arbitrary”.
The letter was signed by the general secretary, Abdullahi Dangana, and president, Habeeb Abdulkadir.
According to the alumni, the land in question was originally allocated to the university in 1988 by the then military administration under President Ibrahim Babangida, as part of a broader vision to establish a comprehensive academic and research institution in the nation’s capital.
According to the alumni body, the land is not just a physical asset, but a “national educational treasure” meant to accommodate future expansion, research hubs, and a growing student population.
It explained that the land was specifically envisioned to accommodate a main campus with extensive infrastructure for conventional and distance learning; agricultural, scientific, and environmental research zones; recreational and community services.
“The proposed revocation of two thirds of this portion at this time profoundly undermines the strategic future of the university, especially as it strives to expand its research capacity, accommodate an increasing student population and inherent Staff increase, and fulfil its dual mode (conventional and distance learning) mandate,” the letter read.
The alumni association insists that the land is covered by valid legal instruments and protected under the Land Use Act, adding that any revocation without due process and compensation would amount to a violation of natural justice.
“Any attempt to reduce this allocation without due process, adequate compensation, and demonstrable and bona fide overriding public interest, distinct from general land management objectives, would constitute a violation of established land tenure laws and principles of natural justice,” the letter stated.
Beyond legal concerns, the letter highlights the sociocultural significance of the institution, describing the university as a melting pot of Nigeria’s diverse ethnicities and a critical pillar for nation-building.
“The land is not a mere territory. It represents hope, unity, and development for past and future generations,” the letter said.
While acknowledging the FCT minister’s efforts to sanitize land administration in Abuja, the alumni urged him not to lump the university’s allocation into cases of land misuse.
They offered to collaborate with his office to monitor development on the land and ensure transparency.
However, the association also cautioned that should the minister fail to respond to their appeal, it will begin a series of actions, including open letters, peaceful protests, legal actions, and petitions to the presidency and international bodies.
“We remain open to dialogue but are fully prepared to escalate this matter if treated with contempt,” the letter noted.
