CITY WALK ABUJA IS GOING TO BE A LIVING, BREATHING ECOSYSTEM- DR KASSIM GIDADO
…Promises completion of first phase by May 2026
By: Prudence Okonna
In a bold step toward redefining urban development in Nigeria’s capital, MAG Intl, the company spearheading the transformative city walk project, has unveiled its comprehensive vision for a world-class city, describing it as a “living, breathing ecosystem” within Abuja.
The Executive Director of MAG International, Dr. Kassim Gidado, revealed the vision for the City Walk Abuja during an exclusive interview with Abuja Digest over the weekend.
Dr. Gidado described the proposed City Walk Abuja as a “living, breathing ecosystem,” designed to merge lifestyle, commerce, entertainment, and sustainability in a single, integrated urban space.
“It is more than just a development; it is a new way of life. We are building a 24/7 environment where people don’t just live or work, they thrive.” He emphasized.
The Executive Director stated that the world-class project is inspired by successful global models, such as Dubai’s City Walk and the vibrant boulevards of Paris and London. Adding that Mag Intl is tailoring the concept to the Nigerian context, as the City walk Abuja will blend the best of modern infrastructure with African identity and values.
According to him, the project will feature residential communities with modern, secure housing, commercial hubs that cater to global and local businesses, world-class medical facilities to attract healthcare tourism, educational centers of excellence in collaboration with Nigerian and international institutions, entertainment arenas, theme parks, and cultural showcases, and sustainable green spaces that reflect environmental responsibility.
He emphasized that the City Walk is set to generate substantial economic returns for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
According to Gidado, this will be achieved through taxes, business activity, tourism, and public-private partnerships. And also estimates that the project will become a significant revenue stream for the government while creating thousands of jobs for the locals.
“This is not just about buildings. It’s about perception, we want investors to see Abuja as a viable, vibrant alternative to Lagos. The city walk will help reposition the capital as a modern economic hub.” He reiterated.
The developer explained that tourism is also central to the City Walk vision as the development will host international concerts, cultural festivals, and family-friendly attractions that blend global entertainment with authentic Nigerian heritage.
He emphasized that surrounding communities, especially Lugbe, will not be left behind. “We see Lugbe as our support zone, this project will bring infrastructure, opportunity, and connectivity, not isolation. Residents will benefit socially and economically.”
In describing the phases of development, Gidado revealed that the city walk development will roll out in seven distinct phases, each with subcomponents like phase 2A, 2B. He added that these will cater to specific urban needs, ensuring thoughtful execution and adaptability.
“We are not just throwing up buildings. We’re curating experiences, every phase has a purpose from family living to advanced healthcare, from vibrant marketplaces to quiet residential enclaves.” He echoed.
Gidado also noted that the City Walk will have sustainability at the core as it will be designed to include waste recycling systems, eco-friendly transit, low-carbon building practices, harmonious interaction with the natural environment.
“We are committed to green living. City walk will prove that eco-friendly development is not only possible in Nigeria, it is the future.” He emphasized
The MAG Intl Executive Director considers the city walk a flagship project that could shape future development across the country.
While appreciating the FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike’s direct support and collaboration with global designers, including partners from Dubai, he noted that the groundwork has already been laid for something iconic.
“We want the City Walk Abuja to change the narrative. When the world thinks of Abuja, they should think of innovation, opportunity, and quality.” He added.
Speaking on response to concerns around project timelines and delivery, MAG INTL has given its firm commitment to the FCT Administration to complete the sales office, amongst other components, by May 29th, 2026, aligning with the national calendar to mark progress.
“We have promised the Honourable Minister that this will not be another land-grab story. This is a long-term investment, and we’re meeting our milestones.”
“The first major milestones include the establishment of a sales office, hosting a groundbreaking ceremony, targeted for before October 1st, and completing the sales office among other components by May 29th next year, aligning with the national calendar to mark progress”.
“We want to build trust by showing work, not just plans. The government has shown strong support, and that gives investors confidence that their investments are safe.” Gidado reiterated.
Abuja Digest reports that this interview follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the FCT Administration and MAG Intl on July 23rd 2025, specifying the terms for the development of the project, which will be situated on approximately 200 hectares of land along the airport expressway, while the Certificate of Occupancy has also been signed, clearing the path for immediate commencement of the project.
