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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike issued a stern warning to contractors on Wednesday, demanding strict adherence to timelines for key infrastructure projects slated for inauguration during President Bola Tinubu’s third anniversary.
During an extensive inspection tour of ongoing projects in Abuja, Wike voiced frustration over delays in roadworks in Wuse, despite praising the quality achieved thus far. “We agreed that by the end of May or June that job will be delivered, but what we heard today is different. I’m not going to accept that,” the minister said. “I have directed that by the second week of June, that project must be handed over.”
The minister emphasised his administration’s hands-on approach to quality control and accountability. “We don’t just sit in our offices. We go out to verify the quality of jobs and ensure contractors meet up with timelines,” he stated.
Wike commended progress elsewhere, including the N16 interchange and the Institutions and Research District near key academic institutions. “At the N16 interchange, the quality of work speaks for itself. The contractor has assured us it will be ready for inauguration. The same applies to the Institutions and Research Centre; we are confident it will be delivered on schedule,” he said.
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At Tunga Madaki, the minister inspected a critical access road and bridge linking Bill Clinton Drive on Airport Road to surrounding communities, which is now nearing completion. “This road became necessary following the construction of the second runway by the Ministry of Aviation. The community demanded access, and we delivered. You can see they are putting finishing touches to the bridge,” he added.
Wike announced plans to extend the road to Zuba, with procurement and compensation processes already underway. “From Bill Clinton Drive to Zuba will be opened up. This is part of our broader commitment to ensure that satellite towns benefit from development under this administration,” he said.
Beyond roads, Wike noted that the FCT is advancing water supply, education, and healthcare initiatives. “We are going to inaugurate the satellite water projects in Bwari, Karu, and Orozo. In education, we have renovated and furnished several schools, especially in satellite towns. We’ve also awarded contracts for rehabilitation of health facilities. So, it’s not just about roads,” he noted.
Addressing recent water scarcity in the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), he blamed damage to a major pipeline by a private developer. “A major pipe was damaged during a private development. The Water Board is working seriously to fix it, but we will investigate and take action. If necessary, we will shut down that project because no one should inconvenience the public for personal gain,” he warned.
Wike appealed for public patience while assuring a swift resolution. “It’s not our fault, but we take responsibility to fix it. The public should be assured that we are on top of the situation,” he said.
