Wike Pledges To Complete Abandoned Projects, Begins Rural Development In FCT

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has assured that all abandoned projects across the six Area Councils will be completed under his administration.

He gave the assurance on Monday during the inauguration of a five-kilometre dual carriageway in Kuje Area Council of the FCT.

Wike emphasised the importance of continuing projects initiated before his tenure, citing the government’s responsibility to ensure public funds are utilized efficiently.

“Any project that was awarded before now, and abandoned, we have to go back to those projects, because government is a continuum.

“It is public money, so we cannot allow government money to be wasted simply because we were not the one that awarded it, no.

“We will continue with those projects since they will have a positive impact on the lives of our people. That is what is important to us, and we are going to do it,” he said.

Wike stressed that projects will be completed in every area council, irrespective of political affiliation.

“This has nothing to do with a party; this is about governance; this is about touching every rural area, and every area council.

“Whether All Progressive Congress is in charge of this area council, or whether Peoples Democratic Party is in charge, or no party is in charge, we are going to touch every area council.

“That is the directive of President Tinubu,” the minister said.

The minister also disclosed plans for the FCT administration to embark on a comprehensive renovation of at least 25 schools and the completion of abandoned hospital projects within the next one to two weeks.

He reiterated that the focus is not limited to roads but extends to critical sectors like education and healthcare.

“We are not just talking about roads, we are also talking about schools, we are also going to come to hospitals that have been abandoned.

“Take for example, the Utako General Hospital that has not been completed; the General Hospital Gwagwalada. We are going to put them in order for the use of our people.”

FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, emphasized the significance of rural road infrastructure in boosting local economies. She highlighted the positive impact of improved road networks on productivity, employment, and overall economic stimulation.

“I have no doubt that rural road infrastructure forms the backbone of rural economies and contributes significantly to the overall development of a nation.

“Improved road networks that connect rural producers to markets, enabling them to sell their goods at fair prices and access essential services more easily.

“This will enhance productivity, create employment opportunities, and stimulate local economies,” Mahmoud said.

The council chairman, Abdullahi Sabo and the traditional leader, Alhaji Haruna Jibrin, expressed gratitude for the minister’s commitment to development.

Sabo praised the dualization of the road in Kuje, anticipating a solution to flooding challenges during the rainy season.

The Gomo of Kuje, Alhaji Jibrin, commended the minister for renewing hope in the community and announced the conferment of a traditional title on him.

The Oversite Director of the Satellite Towns Development Department, Dr Olusegun Olusa, provided details about the road project, awarded to Gilmor Engineering Nigeria Ltd.

A developer, Mr Patrick Ojo also voiced their optimism, expecting the completed project to significantly impact transportation, decongest roads, and enhance economic growth.

“So, the project, when completed, will decongest this road and will by effect, also allow free flow of traffic,” Ojo said.