AN OVERVIEW OF THE OVERLAPPING RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN FCTA AND AMAC: IMPLICATIONS FOR DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

This study examines the overlapping relationship between the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), with particular focus on its implications for the development of the city. The research looks into how interactions between both institutions influence governance, service delivery, and the council’s developmental trajectory. It also discussed the challenges and prospects of the FCTA–AMAC dynamic.  Qualitative approach was used, relying on secondary data sources, and was anchored on Institutional Theory to explain how regulatory structures, organizational norms, and power relations shape intergovernmental interactions. Findings revealed that although the FCTA and AMAC function as tiers of governance within the Federal Capital Territory, the FCTA retains superiority over AMAC. This dominance has led to overlapping responsibilities, particularly in revenue collection, land administration, and infrastructural development, creating tensions and administrative inefficiencies. While the relationship has produced some developmental outcomes, it has also had adverse effects, especially for rural and peri-urban communities that depend on AMAC for grassroots governance. The study concluded that the FCTA’s control significantly weakens AMAC’s autonomy, limiting its capacity to respond effectively to pressing community needs. It recommends that constitutional provisions clearly delineating the responsibilities of FCTA and AMAC should be enforced to prevent overlapping duties. AMAC should be allowed to exercise its full autonomy as enshrined in the Constitution, while both institutions should foster genuine collaboration to ensure balanced and inclusive development. Effective coordination of their relationship holds strong potential for sustainable progress across AMAC