Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has announced his administration’s commitment to accelerating the construction of crucial infrastructure in Abuja. During a recent inspection of abandoned projects, Wike assured that the completion of B6 and B12 roads, connecting Constitution Avenue to the Abuja City Gate, is set to be accomplished within the next seven months.
The tour also included a visit to the Federal Secretariat buildings, which are undergoing renovation and are projected to be finalized within the next seven to eight months. Among the previously neglected projects visited were the Vice President’s residence, initiated in 2010, and the homes of the National Assembly’s presiding officers near the National Assembly complex, which were initially commissioned in 2009.
Joined by FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, and Permanent Secretary of FCT Administration, Mr Adesola Olusade, the minister additionally inspected the construction progress of the Millennium Tower located in Abuja’s Central Area.
Emphasizing his commitment to tangible results, Minister Wike expressed his determination to deliver on these projects. He emphasized his aversion to excuses and pledged to utilize the full capacity of the FCT ministry. For projects beyond their scope, he affirmed his intention to collaborate with President Bola Tinubu’s office for assistance.
Wike highlighted the significance of the road project linking the city gate to Constitution Avenue, labeling it a “vital infrastructure” poised to transform Abuja’s urban landscape. He revealed that renowned construction company Julius Berger has committed to completing the Federal Secretariat’s renovation within the stipulated seven to eight-month timeframe.
“I want to assure you that in the next six to seven months, the two projects would be completed,” Wike affirmed.
Reflecting on his presidential mandate, Wike shared President Bola Tinubu’s directive to enhance Abuja’s facilities and structures. This directive underscores the importance of infrastructure like the road network and the forthcoming Millennium Tower, expected to attract tourists and families, enhancing the city’s appeal.
Acknowledging financial constraints, Wike disclosed plans to collaborate with FCT Minister of State and Permanent Secretary, FCTA, to redefine the funding approach for ongoing projects. He stressed a preference for earmarking funds for specific projects to ensure their successful completion, contrasting this approach with allocating substantial sums annually to projects worth significantly more yet remaining incomplete.
“Fund is a challenge, yes, but we are here to solve such a challenge,” Wike emphasized.
Accompanying Minister Wike on the inspection were key officials, including the Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority, Mr Shehu Hadi, as well as directors and high-ranking management personnel of the FCTA.
