Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) is a pivotal phase in the lifecycle of any project, determining its successful completion. The outcomes of M&E reports often reveal the effectiveness of project implementation. This research focuses on enhancing M&E practices in urban development projects, specifically in Abuja, Nigeria's capital. The importance of M&E in national development and project performance is significant. The study, titled "Optimizing Monitoring and Evaluation Practices in Urban Development Projects: A Case Study of Abuja, Nigeria," aims to scrutinize and improve M&E methods in Abuja's urban projects. Utilizing Contingency, Program, and Results-Based Management (RBM) theoretical frameworks, the research highlights M&E as a vital tool for ensuring projects are completed on time by the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA). The study concludes with recommendations to institutionalize M&E in the FCDA and other public sectors in Nigeria, provide proper training for government officials on M&E metrics, and emphasize the necessity for professional staff knowledgeable in M&E to enhance project performance.