Tinubu administration not known for abandoning projects – Wike

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has reiterated President Bola Tinubu administration’s commitment to fulfilling its promises during the commissioning of the Bwari water project yesterday.

Wike stressed that unlike previous administrations, Tinubu’s government is not known for abandoning projects, assuring that the ongoing infrastructure developments would be completed on schedule.

“Today marks a significant moment as we flag off the water supply project for Bwari, a milestone in bringing clean, potable water to our satellite towns. Some thought this was mere political talk back in 2023 when we announced these intentions, but you can be assured that this government delivers. The Tinubu administration is not known for abandoning projects,” he said.

He reflected on the early planning stages, recalling his meetings with stakeholders across the FCT’s six area councils, where the president’s vision was first announced. “When the president makes promises, he always fulfills them. Today, we stand in Bwari, tomorrow Karu, and we will continue this progress to Kuje, Kwali, Gwagwalada, and Abaji within the president’s tenure,” he affirmed.

He revealed that although the contract was originally slated for 18 months, discussions with contractors led to a plea for expedited completion to coincide with the president’s third anniversary in office. “The president responded swiftly and approved 50 percent of the contract funds immediately to CGC Nigeria Limited, demonstrating his commitment to seeing this project succeed. This is a promise kept,” he said.

He also appealed to the people of Bwari and surrounding communities to take ownership of the project. “This is the first time a government has declared that you deserve clean, potable water, not just in words but through concrete action. I urge traditional rulers, youth and women to protect this project as if it were your own. Just as you guard road constructions, safeguard your water supply infrastructure,” he said.

The crowd echoed his call for accountability, chanting, “Agreement is agreement,” which the minister embraced as a solemn pact between the government and the citizens. “We have agreed to bring water, and we are delivering. When I return to report our performance, you too will uphold your end. This project will not be abandoned,” he assured.

Echoing the significance of the project, FCT minister of state, Mariya Mahmoud, emphasised how access to clean water improves public health and enhances quality of life. She commended President Tinubu’s leadership for prioritising infrastructure within his Renewed Hope Agenda and praised the FCT administration’s dedication.

The acting Executive Secretary, Federal Capital Development Authority, Richard Dauda, provided detailed insights into the technical scope of the water project.

He explained that the initiative aligns with the FCT regional master plan, which ensures simultaneous development of satellite towns alongside the federal capital city.

“The Bwari water project is a critical extension of the Greater Abuja Water Supply project completed recently. It involves installing nearly 198 kilometres of pipeline and upgrading pump stations that have been compromised by ageing infrastructure.

“Once completed, this project will provide reliable, treated water to half a million residents in Bwari and neighbouring communities,” he said.

The project also promises employment opportunities, with an estimated 1,600 direct and indirect jobs to be created during construction, further solidifying its socio-economic impact.

Wike closed the event with a rallying call to action and collaboration, saying, “We will not start and leave projects undone. This administration is different. The Tinubu government’s legacy will be one of completed, impactful projects that uplift the lives of Nigerians.”