By Onyeka Abbanobi, Abuja
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike conducted an inspection tour of key infrastructure projects across the Territory on Wednesday, February 12, 2025. The Minister visited the construction of the access road from Ring Road 1 by N16 (Shehu Shagari Way) to Judges Quarters, including the construction of internal roads within the Judges Quarters in Katampe District, Abuja, according to a press statement from the Director, Press at the Minister’s Office on Wednesday.
Following the inspection, the Minister lauded the progress observed at all project sites, highlighting the efficient use of funds and the contractors’ dedication. He expressed confidence that the projects would be completed within the stipulated time frame. “I’m quite impressed with the speed of work by the various contractors, particularly those carrying out road construction – Julius Berger, CGC, as we saw. Quite impressive. I believe that we are going to meet up like they promised by May this year,” the Minister said.
The Minister further commended the progress at the Judges’ Quarters, saying, “Look at the Judges’ Quarters, the FCT, the Federal High Court, and the Court of Appeal. It’s really amazing with the level they’ve gotten to. I have always said that with proper management of funds, contractors are willing to put in their best. When they see that funds are coming, they will not hesitate to work.”
Barr. Wike acknowledged the support and cooperation of local communities, which he said has been crucial in ensuring the smooth continuation of the projects. He also addressed the issue of compensation for properties affected by the road projects, confirming that payments have been made for the structures affected by the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) to Wasa District and the Life Camp to Dei-Dei road projects.
Additionally, the Minister stated that compensation for affected structures in the Gishiri Village near the Judges Quarters in Katampe is being processed and expected to be completed before the end of the week, with funds already allocated. “The Department of Resettlement and Compensation has said that the one in the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) going to Wasa has been done. Where we are standing now, the Life Camp to Dei-Dei road project has been done. Then, the one at Gishiri—they are talking about 500 meters. We believe that before the end of the week, we will have settled that area. We are already paying the compensation. The funds have been made available,” the Minister explained.
Regarding waste management in satellite towns, the Minister announced that the selection process for competent contractors that will be responsible for waste management services is nearing completion. He emphasized the government’s commitment to tackling the issue of waste management, particularly in the satellite towns, and expressed confidence that the selected contractors will be able to provide effective and efficient services. “We are almost done with the selection of the contractors that will be carrying out the waste management. I believe in the next one week, we will have selected those who are competent and we think can deliver,” the Minister said ¹.
The Minister’s inspection tour and announcements demonstrate the FCT Administration’s commitment to delivering infrastructure projects and addressing the needs of local communities.
