From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has announced that President Bola Tinubu has approved the commissioning of series of key infrastructure projects in Abuja, set to begin on Tuesday, June 10, immediately after the Sallah holiday. The announcement came following the minister’s inspection tour of several project sites yesterday.
Speaking from the International Conference Centre, Wike revealed that the commissioning will kick off with the International Conference Centre itself, which is ready for use. The following day, June 11, the President will commission a major road route from the Girishi area interchange extending to Jahi, Maitama, and Mabushi.
“The President will personally commission 10 projects,” Wike said. “In addition, the Vice President will represent the President to commission three projects, the Senior President two projects, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives two projects. In total, 17 projects will be commissioned due to time and logistical considerations.”
He described the scale of the project commissioning as unprecedented in Abuja’s history, emphasising the strong support from the President and the government’s commitment to fulfilling its promises.
“With the kind of support we have from Mr. President, we are very happy that all the promises we made have been accomplished,” Wike said. Look at the reaction from the people — their joy tells you everything. If the people are happy, we are also happy. We give God Almighty the glory and thank Mr. President for all his support.”
He also highlighted the cooperation of the legislature, which has ensured that all budget requests related to these projects were approved promptly, allowing for smooth implementation.
On the maintenance of these projects, the minister assured that there will be direct supervision under his office. He disclosed plans to enter into an agreement with Julius Berger, a reputable construction company, to maintain the infrastructure.
“This time around, it is under my supervision and will be managed and maintained by Julius Berger,” he said. “We will pay them to ensure the projects are properly maintained and not left to politicians who might neglect them.”
On the upcoming Sallah celebrations, Wike prayed for peaceful festivities and urged Nigerians to use the holiday period to foster unity.
“We believe by the grace of God, without security breaches, Nigerians will enjoy their Sallah happily,” he said. “I pray that everyone continues to support Mr. President. I use this period to call on all Nigerians to work together and unite the country so we can forge ahead for the benefit of Nigeria.”
Wike expressed optimism that by Sunday or Monday, the roads and other project sites would be fully cleared and ready for the commissioning ceremonies.
“We are at the International Conference Centre looking at where the people will sit and where the President will stay to commission these no-credit projects,” he said. “That is what we will do to ensure everyone knows what these projects represent — the New Hope Agenda in action.”