NIGERIA has ambitious plans to develop a £14bn mega-city near its capital, Abuja, with hopes of transforming it into an eco-friendly urban oasis that rivals global hubs like Dubai and Singapore. Named Centenary City, the project is being managed by Centenary City FZE, covering 1,260 hectares. It will feature a central business district, financial centres, luxury hotels, residential neighbourhoods, and several recreational facilities.
Centenary City’s expansive layout includes a cultural centre, museum, 18-hole golf course, safari park, and sports complexes. With its futuristic, sustainable design, the development aims to showcase a new face of Nigeria and to compete as a destination for tourism and investment. ‘Centenary City will show the investing world Nigeria in a new light,’ stated Abdulsalami Abubakar, chairman of Centenary City Plc and former Nigerian president.
Economic impact and employment prospects
Expected to generate over 150,000 jobs during construction and 250,000 permanent roles once completed, Centenary City is also set to attract foreign investment with its Free Trade Zone status. Approved by the Nigeria Export Processing Zone Authority, this designation offers tax incentives for international businesses, making it a highly attractive location for global companies.
Abubakar describes the city as a ‘revolutionary approach to urbanisation in Africa,’ adding that it could serve as a blueprint for urban developments across the continent. The project is anticipated to accommodate around 200,000 residents and receive up to 500,000 daily visitors, injecting significant capital into Nigeria’s economy.
Project delays and political support
Despite its grand vision, the project has faced notable delays, with setbacks prompting the Nigerian Senate to launch an investigation. In May 2024, a Senate committee was formed to review the project’s agreements, aiming to ensure that the development meets its targets. Senator Ashiru Yisa, the Deputy Senate Leader, voiced optimism, saying, ‘We hope to revive and complete the stalled Centenary City Project, to realise its economic and development potential.’
Centenary City represents more than just an infrastructure project for Nigeria; it’s a strategic attempt to diversify the economy, positioning Abuja as a globally recognised urban centre. With the backing of high-level stakeholders and a renewed commitment to its completion, Centenary City could become a beacon of sustainable urban planning in Africa.
