Centenary City
Centenary City is a planned city in the Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria. It is a master-planned smart city development overseen by Centenary City FZE, designed to mirror global cities such as Dubai, Monaco, and Singapore.
Overview
- Location: 1,260 hectares of virgin land, southwest of Abuja, and approximately 5 km from the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
- Purpose: Conceived as a legacy project to commemorate Nigeria's 100-year anniversary on January 1, 2014, under President Goodluck Jonathan's administration.
- Vision: A fully integrated, mixed-use smart city, featuring:
- Urban center
- Central business and financial districts
- Museum and cultural centers (African and global arts)
- World-class hotels and Grade A offices
- Residential areas
- 18-hole golf course
- Polo and country club
- International convention center
- Sports and leisure facilities
- Safari park
- Educational and healthcare institutions
- Community amenities
The project is private-sector driven.
Free Trade Zone Status
Centenary City has been declared an Economic City and granted Free Trade Zone (FTZ) status by the Nigeria Export Processing Zone Authority (NEPZA).
It is among over 30 FTZs in Nigeria established to boost economic growth and attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).
Delays and Return to Work
As of August 2018, the project was undergoing revival after three years of setbacks in administration and land acquisition.
At a press briefing, NEPZA's director revealed:
- Estimated FDI attraction: $18 billion
- Projected job creation: 250,000 direct jobs
- Initial investment: $40 million (from local and foreign investors including Alhaji Baba Dantata and Front Range)
A notable development within the city is the “Buhari Tower”, named after President Muhammadu Buhari.
Commencement of Work
In 2018, construction began on “The GROVE”, the first Co-Development Project within Centenary City.
- Primary infrastructure completion: 60%
See Also
- Eko Atlantic(#)
References
To be added