By: Abba Onyekachukwu, Abuja.
Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, has conducted an extensive inspection tour of ongoing infrastructure projects in Abuja to ensure their readiness for commissioning in celebration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second year in office, according to a press statement from Rabi Umaru Musa, the Assistant Master, Office of the Minister.
The projects inspected include the International Conference Centre (ICC), Arterial Roads N5 and N16, and the Gishiri Interchange. Wike expressed satisfaction with the progress, highlighting the FCT administration’s dedication to delivering critical infrastructure.
The International Conference Centre is fully ready for commissioning, with the contractor having fulfilled their commitments and showcasing superb quality.
Arterial Road N5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way) is 95% complete, with contractor Julius Berger assuring full readiness by the end of next week. The N16 interchange connecting the Maitama and Katampe districts at Gishiri is making significant progress, with the section leading to Judges Quarters and the link from Jahi to Wole Soyinka Way now fully open.
Wike stated that the arterial road N16 will likely be the first project to be unveiled, following requests from members of the House of Representatives and Senate Committees on the FCT to adjust the date for fuller participation.
The Minister emphasized the FCTA’s resolve to enforce compliance with ground rent payments, noting that defaulters have been given a two-week window to regularize their payments. Wike stressed that prompt tax payments would significantly enhance the FCTA’s capacity to deliver more infrastructure.
Regarding a recent security incident at Mogadishu Cantonment, Wike clarified that it was not a suicide bomber, but rather an individual who took an explosive and put it in his pocket, which exploded. He cautioned against planting unverified stories that could instill fear and reassured residents of the FCT Administration’s continued improvements in security.
Wike expressed delight at the visible impact of the projects on residents and emphasized that they are a testament to President Tinubu’s promise to develop and enhance road infrastructure for Abuja residents. The Minister’s inspection tour demonstrates the FCT administration’s commitment to delivering critical infrastructure and improving the quality of life for Abuja residents.
