In a significant development on Tuesday, November 28, 2023, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, conducted inspections at proposed project sites in the FCT. The sites included the Judges Quarters in Katampe District, the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal Complex in Sector B, Jabi/Dakibiyu District, and a Memorial Park in Jabi District, Abuja.
The purpose of these visits was to physically examine the locations and plan for the development of these crucial projects. Minister Wike revealed that directives have been issued to the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) to provide the necessary infrastructure at the sites, laying the groundwork for the commencement of construction.
Minister Wike highlighted the diverse scope of the projects, stating, “We are going to build accommodation for Judges of the Federal High Court, Judges of the FCT High Court, and Justices of the Court of Appeal of Abuja Division.” He emphasized the need for basic infrastructure before commencing residential building projects.
Regarding the proposed Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal Complex, Minister Wike disclosed that the FCDA has been instructed to provide infrastructure and acquire adjoining structures in the Utako area. This move is deemed necessary for public interest, with compensations to be paid accordingly.
A particularly poignant project is the Memorial Park in Jabi, intended to honor those who lost their lives in a building collapse incident in 2008. Minister Wike expressed his commitment to creating a befitting memorial center, directing the Director of Parks and Recreation to design a lasting tribute.
Addressing FCT residents during the visit to Jabi, Minister Wike stated that the memorial park would not only enhance the city’s aesthetics but also provide a space for relaxation and leisure for residents. He tied the project to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging the support of the people.
Work on these projects is set to kick off post the passage of the FCT 2024 statutory budget, as indicated by Minister Wike. He assured that only projects with sufficient financial backing would be undertaken, highlighting the commitment to fiscal responsibility.
In a related development, Minister Wike explained the rationale behind the withdrawal of the FCT from the Treasury Single Account, citing it as a strategic move to access funds from the broader financial market, using the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) as collateral.
The Minister concluded the visit accompanied by high-ranking officials from the FCT Administration, including the Executive Secretary of the FCDA, Engr. Shehu Hadi Ahmad, Director Engineering Engr. Obiora Ezeoha, and Director Land TPL Adamu Hussaini Jibril.
