The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has condemned the destruction of green areas and encroachment on natural waterways in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), warning that such development poses serious environmental and health risks to residents.
Mr. Eche Asuzu, NLC National Coordinator on Climate Change and Just Transition, made this statement in an interview with reporters on Sunday in Abuja.
Asuzu said the destruction of vegetation, public parks, and other green spaces in the FCT undermines principles of climate justice and environmental sustainability.
“What is happening in the FCT fundamentally undermines the principles that inform the quest for climate justice. We claim we want development, yet we pursue it unsustainably by clearing forests, vegetation, and parks that serve as the lungs of nature,” he said.
He explained that continued encroachment on green areas and waterways contributes to rising temperatures in Abuja.
“Abuja is becoming hotter because nature is being violated. When waterways are blocked and vegetation is destroyed, nature fights back,” he added.
He described the development as unacceptable and called on the FCT Administration to halt further destruction of green spaces and restore environmental standards.
“We demand that infractions on nature and public spaces stop immediately. What we’re seeing—structures along riverbeds, water channels, and green zones meant to protect the environment—is scandalous,” he said.
Asuzu also warned that workers and low-income residents would bear the brunt of environmental consequences, as many live in poorly planned communities with inadequate infrastructure.
“Workers are most affected by climate change, and these actions will worsen their conditions,” he stated.
He urged the FCT Minister to strictly enforce the Abuja Master Plan and restore green infrastructure across the city.
“The natural lungs of the FCT must be restored. Abuja needs to breathe,” he emphasized.
Asuzu assured that the NLC would continue to represent and defend workers’ interests in climate change negotiations at national, regional, and global levels.
He added that the congress would advocate for worker protection, green jobs, occupational safety, compensation for livelihood losses, and equitable climate transition policies.
