SULEJA: PROGENITOR OF THE NASCENT NATION'S CAPITAL

Abstract

This lead paper seeks to establish the multifaceted dimensions on how Suleja Emirate contributed to the establishment of the Federal Capital of Nigeria, there on becoming a satellite town to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Its sacrifice made the choice of Abuja possible as the appropriate location for the Federal Capital of Nigeria. However, the consequences of its generosity and benevolence outweigh its reward. A once-vibrant town in Nigeria, Suleja is currently plagued by the challenges emanating from its huge landmass loss, due to seizure by the Federal Government in 1976, during the relocation of the Federal Capital from Lagos to Abuja. We posit the word seizure albeit from the wordings and Principle of the 1976 Decree that expropriated the large chunk of the Emirate's land mass without any provision of recompense. Through a comprehensive analysis of historical records, socio-economic factors, and contemporary case studies, this research aims at foregrounding Suleja's contributions to the establishment of the FCT, and unraveling the underlying consequences of such magnanimity. It further explores potential strategies for rejuvenation, emphasizing the imperative of sustainable urban planning and community engagement to breathe life back into this dwarfed settlement. The paper also forwards recommendations such as increase in the federal presence in Suleja Emirate, and employment of indigenes as several of the ways the Federal Government can impact the town for growth and development.