Essential Ndubuisi
Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, has unveiled plans to fast-track the completion of crucial infrastructure projects in Abuja, including the B6 and B12 roads connecting Constitution Avenue to the Abuja City Gate. During a recent inspection of abandoned projects in the city, Wike affirmed his commitment to completing these ventures within the next seven months. Additionally, he announced his intention to finalize the renovation of the Federal Secretariat buildings within the same timeframe.
Accompanied by FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, and Permanent Secretary of FCT Administration, Mr Adesola Olusade, Wike assessed various abandoned projects, including the Vice President’s residence, which was initiated in 2010, and the residences of the presiding officers of the National Assembly, near the National Assembly complex, a project awarded in 2009. The tour also included an inspection of the construction site of the Millennium Tower in Abuja’s Central Area.
Expressing his determination to ensure project completion, Wike emphasized his aversion to making excuses and stated his intention to deliver on commitments, seeking President Bola Tinubu’s assistance where necessary for projects exceeding the capacity of the FCT ministry.
Highlighting the significance of the road connecting the city gate to Constitution Avenue, Wike praised it as an essential piece of infrastructure that will transform Abuja’s landscape. He also revealed that Julius Berger, the construction company, had pledged to complete the Federal Secretariat renovation within the stipulated seven-to-eight months timeframe.
Wike confidently assured, “I want to assure you that in the next six to seven months, the two projects would be completed.”
Commenting on the state of the Vice President’s residence and the National Assembly officers’ residences, Wike noted his intention to liaise with President Tinubu to determine the way forward. He recalled President Tinubu’s directive to restore key structures and amenities to elevate Abuja to a world-class city.
Acknowledging the financial challenge, Wike expressed his intention to collaborate with the Minister of State for FCT and the Permanent Secretary of FCTA to review funding strategies for ongoing projects. He stressed his preference for allocating specific funds to individual projects for successful completion rather than allocating substantial amounts annually to projects that remain incomplete, a strategy he believes would waste public funds.
While funding remains an obstacle, Wike’s proactive approach reflects his determination to overcome challenges and revitalize the development of critical infrastructure in Abuja. Joining him in this endeavor were other key officials, including the Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority, Mr Shehu Hadi, and senior management officials from the FCTA.
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