From David Onuoja, Abuja
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to the timely completion of ongoing infrastructural projects across the FCT.
The Minister made this pledge at the weekend while addressing journalists shortly after a routine inspection of ongoing critical projects across the city centre.
He spoke on the critical infrastructural project sites where he visited, including the ongoing rehabilitation of the International Conference Centre (ICC), the construction of Collector Road CN8 (connecting the Obafemi Awolowo Way to the Dakibiyu District), the construction of the Abuja Division of the Court of the Appeal office complex as well as the full scope development of Arterial Road N20 (Wole Soyinka Way), including its interchanges.
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Following the development, the Minister expressed satisfaction with the progress of the projects saying, FCT Administration anticipates the handing over of the ICC by Julius Berger by the end of April or May this year, while agreement has also been reached with the contractor for the Court of Appeal project for a handover in September.
He added that, Gilmor Nig., the contractor responsible for the Wole Soyinka Way, has also committed to the completion of the project by May, in time for the celebration of the second-year anniversary of the administration.
Minister Wike, expressed his strong confidence in the transformative potential of the projects, emphasising their ability to enhance both the city’s infrastructure and its aesthetic appeal upon completion.
He commended the contractors for their evident skill and dedication, while simultaneously pledging the government’s commitment to providing consistent and sufficient funding.
Regarding the funding of these projects, the Minister confirmed that they are included in the 2024 budget, with provisions also made in the 2025 budget. He clarified that the 2024 budget period has been extended to the end of June, ensuring that all projects remain within the legal framework.
Addressing the issue of stolen manhole covers, the Minister assured residents that the procurement process for replacements is underway. He said, “You don’t expect that it will be done immediately. Procurement has to take place and you know that procurement is not a one-day affair. But be assured that the FCDA will do all they can to make sure that all that we are lost are covered”he added.
