Abuja City gate“The difference is clear. FCT residents are amazed at the accelerated development that is going on all over the territory. You can see what is happening; people are talking, saying, ‘You mean this is possible within a short time of less than two years?’ We were here for eight years, and comparatively, little happened. “We have not even reached two years, and look at what has already been achieved. Imagine what will happen in four years’ time.”
The minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyeson Wike, made the comparison today, April 19, when fielded questions on the performance of his ministry, from selected journalists in Abuja.
Wike narrated: “When I go out, I see that people are happy. I recently visited Kwali, on the road to Lokoja – A2 to Pai. The enthusiastic reception I received was remarkable. “Similarly, the progress from Pai to Gomani is evident for all to see. In Bwari, the Gaba/Tokulo road is another testament to our commitment to reaching rural areas.
“People are genuinely amazed that the government is focusing on these communities; it has never happened before. So, yes, people are happy.”
Minister Wike said that the
the ongoing International Conference Centre (ICC) renovation reflects the enhanced quality of work being delivered.
“The cost is a direct result of the improved quality we are insisting upon.”
He made it clear that Julius Berger Plc that is handling the project is not cheap, stressing that its standards are exceptional.
“By this May, I invite you to visit the International Conference Centre and witness the transformation firsthand. As Nigerians, you will be proud of what has been accomplished.”
On the on-going hospital projects, including those in Utako, Gwagwalada, and Kubwa, the Minister acknowledged the challenges posed by existing litigation.
He also highlighted the complexities of hospital construction, emphasizing the need for integrated planning and execution, stating that the FCT administration was committed to ensuring the facilities are completed and operational to enhance healthcare delivery in the FCT.
On the recent land reforms, including the regularization of Area Council land titles, the Minister reiterated the Supreme Court’s ruling that all land within the FCT falls under the FCT Administration.
He emphasized government’s commitment to regularizing existing allocations to provide landowners with Certificates of Occupancy (C of O).
“The Supreme Court has come to say every land belongs to the FCT, therefore, there is nothing like Area Council land and we don’t want to go back in saying that we have cancelled all the allocations. We said let’s regularize so that you can have your C of O.”
Wike called for prompt payment of fees and development of allocated lands to prevent land speculation and ensure efficient land utilization.
He said that the Administration will proceed with the development of the Maitama II District, and called on all land allotees in the FCT who are yet to pay the required fees to do so, reiterating that Abuja land is not free.
On the issue of reviewing the Abuja masterplan, the Minister called for patience, saying: “The Abuja masterplan is to keep Abuja the way it was designed.”
He stressed his commitment to adhering to the masterplan and addressing illegal developments.
The Minister said that he will bring down any illegal structure that is against the Abuja masterplan.
On city sanitation, the Minister called for greater public responsibility and tax compliance.
He highlighted the high cost of waste management and urged residents to pay their sanitation fees.
He also called on the media to help educate the public on the need to pay their taxes.
On public transportation in the FCT, and the menace of illegal motor parks, the Minister disclosed that the three bus terminal projects embarked upon by the administration would soon be completed. Once operational, the Minister said, the administration will enforce regulations to reduce illegal parking and improve traffic flow.
“By the grace of God, we are almost done with the three bus terminals. We will be able to say this is where you will load, and this is the dropping point. Then we will now be able to reduce these illegal car parks.”
