₦airaland Forum

Wordson:
So na Liverpool no get injury?
Allison. The number goal keeper is injured
Jota.. is injured
Elliot is injured
Chiesa.. injured.
So what are u saying? U have 4 injured players, we have 4 as well.. so what point are you proving?

…AS WIKE SEEKS AMENDMENT OF FCT’S PROCUREMENT ACT

The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio on Friday, October 24, 2024, flagged-off the commencement of full scope development of Arterial Road N5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way) from the Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III in Abuja.

Speaking during the flag-off exercise, the President of the Senate who was represented by the Chairman, Senate Committee on FCT, Senator Ibrahim Bomai, highlighted the importance of a good road network to the socio-economic development of the country and stressed that the construction of the Arterial Road N5 will not only improve the traffic situation in the area but will also boost socio-economic activities in Abuja.

Senator Akpabio also commended the ingenuity of the FCT Minister, Barr. Ezenwno Nyesom Wike, in improving the revenue base of the FCT and ensuring the provision of vital infrastructure in the nation’s capital.

He said, “The commissioning of the road will definitely reduce traffic congestion and also shorten the driving time, as well as boost socioeconomic activities in the city. On behalf of the entire Senate, I once again commend the Hon. Minister, Minister of FCT, the Minister State and all the staff of the FCT for this milestone in the development of the FCT”.

He also reiterated the commitment of the Senate to providing the necessary support to the FCT Administration to deliver its statutory function.

Speaking earlier, the FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike who disclosed that his attention was drawn to the bad state of the road and the attendant chaotic traffic situation, said its completion will alleviate the challenging traffic situation around the Life Camp axis of the FCT.

Barr. Wike while thanking members of the National Assembly for their continued support to the Administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the FCT Administration, however regretted that the existing procurement law in the FCT was hindering the timely execution of projects and called for its amendment by the lawmakers.

He said the amendment of the procurement law will help to remove the bureaucratic bottlenecks that were slowing down the execution of projects in the nation’s capital.

The FCT Minister said, “Part of our predicament, part of our major headache is the procurement law. the procurement law, yes, it’s to protect and make sure our money is safe. But then if you look at the overall situation, it drags us backward.

“That’s why in most cases, you will do procurement for almost four months before it’s approved, before it goes to the Federal Executive Council and before you know it, six months is over. Six months of procurement alone is half of the year”.


The Executive Secretary FCDA, Engr. Shehu Hadi Ahmad, in his welcome address, explained that the Arterial Road N5 will cover a distance of about 4.4 kilometers with two carriageways of six lanes.

He said the road will provide the much-needed relief to the Old Keffi Road which connects the Lifecamp Junction up to Dei Dei in Abuja, adding that the project will also open up economic activities in the Districts of Kado, Karmo, Gwarimpa I, Dape, Ido Gwari, as well as Saburi and Dei-Dei.

…FLAGS OFF CONSTRUCTION OF COLLECTOR ROAD CN8 IN DAKI BIYU DISTRICT


1. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has reassured residents of the territory that no part of the FCT will be left undeveloped.

2. The Minister gave the reassurance in Abuja on Thursday, October 24, 2024, while flagging off the construction of Collector Road CN8 (Asuquo Okon Way) from Arterial Road N5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way) to Arterial Road N1 (Olusegun Obasanjo Way) and other adjoining roads within sector centre by Daki Biyu District, FCT.

3. The Minister who stated that the Collector Road CN8 is the 4th in the series of road projects that were flagged off for construction in the Abuja city centre this week, said the project would be completed by May 2025 to commemorate President Tinubu’s second year anniversary.

4. He assured the contractor of adequate funding and urged him to ensure the completion of the road project within the stipulated time.

5. Barr. Wike also revealed that the FCT Administration would commence the construction of four other road projects in the satellite towns by next Monday and said that the provision of road infrastructure outside the city center was a necessity and demonstrates the importance that the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda attaches to the development of FCT Satellite Towns.

6. The Minister said, “I believe that this is the first time, for so many years, that the people who reside outside the city can feel the impact of governance and this is what it’s supposed to be.

7. “That is why Mr. President, in his Renewed Hope Agenda, has said development must not only be concentrated within the city where it is believed the big men are; that development should also be taken to the rural areas where those who are considered not to be very wealthy are settled.”

8. Stressing the FCT Administration's commitment to ensuring that development reaches all parts of the Abuja city center, the Minister said, “No part of Abuja in the city should look different from the other part of the city.

9. “Mr. President has said everywhere in the city must have a good road network so that anybody who comes here will know that yes, indeed, this is the city of the biggest country in Africa”.

...FLAGS OFF CONSTRUCTION OF ACCESS ROAD IN CADASTRAL ZONE B07, KATAMPE

1. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has reiterated the commitment of the FCT Administration to ensuring that all Districts in the nation’s capital territory are provided with good road networks and other basic infrastructure in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.


2. The Minister stated this at the flag-off of the construction of the access road from Arterial Road N11 within the Cadastral Zone B07, Katampe District, Abuja, on Wednesday, October 23, 2024.


3. While emphasizing FCTA’s commitment to infrastructural development, Barr. Wike said the construction of the access road will not only improve the living conditions in the surrounding Districts but will also increase the value of properties and economic activities in the area.

4. He said, “Because people know that this road has been awarded, I can tell you that if you want to go and buy land now, it has skyrocketed more than 500 percent. That is what good roads can do. There will be a lot of economic activities here. “So, I think that for a city like Abuja, we have no choice but to continue to provide basic infrastructure like a good network of roads. “

5. The Minister also assured that adequate provision has been made in the budget for funding the road project and urged the contractor to ensure its completion by May next year to commemorate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's second anniversary.


6. He said, “I believe that they (Contractor) can beat the time they have given. We, on our part, will make sure that we do not owe you. As you submit your invoice or your certificate, be assured that we will pay you.”


7. Pledging the FCT Administration's commitment to ensuring the completion of ongoing projects, the Minister assured that every District created in the FCT will be provided with access roads and other basic infrastructure before new ones are created in line with the President's mandate.


8. He said, “We will not rest until we see all the districts are connected with good roads. A good network of roads makes a city very clear.


9. “These roads are very key for us to reduce the hardship our people are facing and that is the mandate Mr. President has given that every District in Abuja, before we create a new District, the one that has been created should have the basic infrastructure that cities are supposed to have.

10.“So, let me assure you that we are not just awarding contracts, and these contracts are being awarded by the Federal Executive Council, not just FCTA. No project under our tenure will stay beyond us. Every project we award, by the grace of God, I will make sure that we finish those projects. We are not going to leave any abandoned project for anybody. We are not going to leave projects where there will be variation or augmentation. Our own time is nothing like variation. Nothing like augmentation”.

…COMMENDS WIKE’S TRANSFORMATIVE LEADERSHIP

1. Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas on Tuesday, October 22, 2024 flagged off the construction of the access road from Ring Road 1 by N16 to the Judges' Quarters in Katampe District of Abuja, as well as the construction of internal roads within Judges' Quarters.

2. Speaking during the flag-off exercise, the Speaker who was represented at the occasion by the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu said the provision of infrastructure in an urban centre like Abuja was not only an economic necessity but also crucial to fostering development, enhancing economic growth and improving the well-being of the citizens

3. He acknowledged the laudable initiatives under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that are aimed at addressing the infrastructure deficit in the country and commended the FCT Minister, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike for his transformative leadership in the FCT since assuming office.

4. Hon Abbas said the FCT Minister has hit the ground running, initiating projects that address the critical needs of the growing city of Abuja and pledged the continued support of the National Assembly for the development efforts in the FCT.


5. He said, “From road construction to urban renewal programmes, his dedication to enhancing the FCT's infrastructure is evident. We have witnessed several flag-offs, not just as ceremonial acts but as milestones in the commitment to making Abuja a world-class city.

6. “The ongoing rehabilitation of major roads, the clearing of illegal structures and the focus on environmental sustainability are all testaments to the Hon. Minister’s vision of an Abuja that is not only beautiful but Abuja that is functional and efficient”, he added.

7. Hon Abbas further expressed confidence that the completion of the access road to the Judges Quarters and other ongoing projects in the FCT will make the city more livable and improve the lives of the residents.

8. In separate messages of goodwill, the Senate Committee Chairman on FCT Area Councils and ancillary matters, Senator David Jimkuta and the House of Representatives Committee Chairman on FCT, Hon. Muktar Aliyu Betara commended the FCT Minister for his developmental strides in the FCT while pledging the support of the National Assembly for the FCTA.

9. Speaking earlier, the FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike thanked the National Assembly for its consistent support to the FCT Administration and the speedy approval of the FCT appropriation acts, adding that the FCTA has also made it a point of duty to ensure that the National Assembly is part of every project that is being flagged off or commissioned in the FCT.

10.The Minister said the access road to the Judges quarters as well as other internal roads in the residential quarters, would be completed by May next year to mark the President’s second year anniversary and assured the contractor of adequate funding.



11.He said, “As I speak to you, we have not less than 70 percent of the money in the budget. So, you have to work round the clock to make sure Mr. President commissions the project on his second year anniversary”.



12.Barr. Wike also reiterated the commitment of the FCT Administration to the provision of infrastructure in both the city centre and the FCT Area Councils, adding that the FCT was not only concentrating on road construction but was also providing other vital infrastructure in the nation’s capital.



13.He said, “This December, we are commissioning six roads that will be a total of about 65 kilometers in the Area Councils. So anybody who is saying that we are concentrating in the city is not saying the truth. The truth is that the attention we give to the city is also the attention we give to the Area Councils”.

The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, on Monday, October 21, 2024, flagged off the design and construction of 40 housing units Judges Qarters at Kampe District of Abuja.


Chief Justice Kereke Ekun described the exercise as a significant milestone in the continuation of the efforts by the Federal Government and the FCT Administration to enhance the welfare of judicial officers in the Federal Capital Territory

She stressed that the provision of comfortable and befitting accommodation for judicial officers is a practical step towards ensuring that they are well supported, adding that it will also provide an environment for Judges to carry out their duties with independence, impartiality and integrity.

She said, “Beyond the courtroom, a supportive and conducive living environment is essential to their ability to focus on the heavy responsibilities entrusted to them. Judicial officers require peace of mind, security and comfort in their residences to fully dedicate themselves to the rigorous task of interpreting and applying the law”.

“It goes beyond addressing the basic needs for housing. It reflects the recognition that the mental and emotional wellbeing of judicial officers is directly tied to their living conditions.

“These homes will provide a secure and tranquil environment enabling judicial officers to perform their duties with greater focus efficiency and clary of mind”, the CJN further stressed.

Justice Kekere-Ekun who also acknowledged the focus of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, further commended FCT Administration for its initiative and forward-thinking in implementing the project, which she said reflects the importance placed on the welfare of judicial officers.

The CJN expressed confidence that the project will be executed and completed within the expected timeframe, adding that the timely completion of the residences will further enhance the capacity of judicial officers to serve with dedication and commitment to justice.

Speaking earlier, the FCT Minister, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike emphasized the commitment of the Federal Government to safeguarding the rule of law and administration of justice by ensuring the independence of the judiciary.

The Minister highlighted some of the practical steps taken by the government to ensure the independence of the judiciary to include improvements in the condition of service for judicial officers, increment of allowances and salaries as well as the provision of befitting and comfortable accommodation.

He said, “Mr. President said it is not every time that we talk about the independence of the judiciary. We must show in practice; we must show in action that we are indeed not saying so but we are doing so, so that people can see that we are seriously doing that.

… AS CHURCH CELEBRATES 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF ABUJA ARCHDIOCESE

1. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has asked the Methodist Church in Nigeria to remain steadfast in prayers for their communities, the nation, and her leaders, saying that their prayers remain a source of strength and guidance.

2. President Tinubu said this during the 40th anniversary celebration church service of the Abuja archdiocese of the Methodist church held at the Methodist Cathedral of Unity Wuse Zone 5, on Sunday, October 14th, 2024.

3. Represented by the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, the President said, “ I urge you, to remain steadfast in your commitment to prayer—not just for your communities but for our beloved Nigeria and its leaders. Your prayers are a source of strength and guidance as we navigate the complexities of governance”.

4. The president also called on the church to continue its work of service, outreach, and mission of compassion and to work hand in hand with the government, following the tenets of the Renewed Hope Agenda, to help create a Nigeria that will meet the collective aspirations of the citizenry.

5. According to President Tinubu, the challenges confronting Nigeria today require a united front saying, “ Today, I call upon you to continue your service, outreach, and compassion mission. The challenges we face as a nation require a united front. Your church can be a platform for social transformation, where individuals come together to enact change, promote peace, and uplift the people.

6. “By working hand in hand with the government and embracing the tenets of the Renewed Hope Agenda, we can create a Nigeria that reflects our collective aspirations.”

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has reiterated that the forthcoming Africa Military Games will showcase the potential of the FCT and Nigeria to Africa and the world.

2. Barrister Wike said this in Abuja on Thursday, October 10, 2024, during a World Press Conference held jointly with the Defence Headquarters on the forthcoming Africa Military Games scheduled for November 18th to 30th in the FCT.

3. He said the games will be an opportunity to send a message across the world that the FCT and, indeed, the entire country is safe and thanked the Chief of Defence of Staff, General Christopher Musa, for bringing the games to the FCT.

4. He said, “What you have done is to take the bull by the horns by showcasing Nigeria and Abuja, in particular, to the entire of Africa and the world.

5. “You may not understand the impact this will have on the FCT and Nigeria. First of all, they will come to appreciate the fact that FCT, the capital of Nigeria, is safe, and to that extent, Nigeria is safe.

6. “Where you have over 3000 people coming to the city at a go, you can see what they will go back with; they will be our ambassadors and tell outsiders that indeed, Abuja is one of the best cities in Africa and indeed Nigeria is really moving forward”.

7. Barrister Wike who also stated that the military is not just about warfare, further noted that the Games will be an avenue for athletes within the armed forces also to showcase their sporting talents. He reaffirmed the FCT Administration's commitment to hosting the event successfully.

8. He said, “On our part, we have said so before, and I want to reiterate that this opportunity, we will not let it go. We will do everything to support you for a successful hosting, and your colleagues will be proud of you.

1. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has pledged the support of the FCT Administration for the successful hosting of the African Military Games scheduled to take place in the FCT in November of this year.

2. Barrister Wike made the pledge when a delegation from the Defence Headquarters led by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa paid him a courtesy visit in his office in Abuja on Wednesday, October 9, 2024.


3. The Minister described the event as a welcome development, saying it will provide an opportunity to showcase Nigeria and the FCT to Africa and the world.

4. He further stated that the Games would also help boost economic activities and showcase the positive aspects of Nigerian society.

5. He said, “This African Military Games coming up in November in Abuja will also showcase the city of Abuja, where over 40 countries will be participating. It’s a welcome development. One is the economic activities; two, it will also show that Nigeria and Abuja are safe.

6. “Sometimes, as you said, people have an impression from the outside without even having first-hand information. So, I believe that when they come here, they will go back home with a different narrative.


7. “On our part, we have no choice but to give you the necessary support because our city will host this international game.


8. “So, we want to assure you that we will fully participate and give you all the necessary support so that it will be a successful event. Whatever you think we can do, do not hesitate to tell us quickly”, the FCT Minister stressed.

9. The FCT Minister also commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their role in fighting insecurity in the FCT and the campaign against insurgency in other parts of the country and pledged the continued support of the FCT Administration to the Nigerian Armed Forces.


10.Earlier in his remark, the Chief of Defence Staff said they were on the visit to inform the FCT Minister about the African Military Games holding in the FCT in November and solicited the FCT Minister's support to ensure a hitch-free event.

11.The Chief of Defence Staff said that armed forces from about 40 countries would participate in the African Military Games for one week in the FCT, adding that it would also provide an opportunity to correct some erroneous impressions about the country.

12.The CDS further commended the Minister for providing infrastructure in the FCT and pledged the Armed Forces' support for the security of lives and property in the nation’s capital.

13.He said, “We appreciate you and want to let you know that the Armed Forces is here to support you in whatever way we can. We must ensure that the6 FCT continues to grow without any threat within or outside of the FCT.

14.“We want to assure you that we are here, entirely with you in every aspect, to support you and ensure your success.


15.“We are very happy with all that you have been doing for the FCT and the country at large”.

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barrister Nyesom Ezenwo Wike,conducted a thorough inspection of the ongoing construction of bus terminals at Kugbo and Mabushi respectively.

The minister, accompanied by some FCTA staff, visited the sites to assess the progress and quality of work being carried out.

About 70%- 80% of the work is done. And hopefully, by January, 2025 the whole project will be completed and handed over to FCTA.

During the inspection, Wike expressed satisfaction with the pace and standard of construction at both locations.

The Minister emphasized the importance of these bus terminals in enhancing transportation infrastructure and easing commuter traffic in the FCT.

The minister commended the efforts of the construction team and reiterated the commitment of the FCT Administration to completing the projects within the stipulated time frame.

Nyesom expressed, his satisfaction with the level of work done so far and commended the contractors handling the projects for their commitment and diligence.


He also urged them to continue to maintain the highest standard of quality and adhere to the agreed timelines for project completion.

The Kugbo and Mabushi bus terminals are designed to accommodate a large number of buses and provide modern facilities such as ticketing booths, waiting areas and restrooms, among others.

The FCT Minister, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has expressed displeasure over the pace of work on the Outer Southern Expressway II (OSEX II) to Wasa road project.

2. Barrister Wike made his feelings known while addressing journalists shortly after inspecting the on-going construction of the 15 kilometer Left-Hand Carriageway of Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX II) from Ring Road 1 to Wasa Junction on Friday, September 27, 2024.

3. The Minister who was visibly angry, said he was happy he came physically to inspect the project as he was misinformed on the progress of work, adding that the contractor had earlier promised to deliver the project by December 2024 and not May, 2025 as being muted.

4. He said, “I am not encouraged. Yesterday my attention was drawn to this road when I went to inspect the Apo-Karshi Road which took us through Wasa and I tried to find out where the company, CGC is working. CGC is one of the respected companies as far as I am concerned. But as far as this road is concerned, I am not happy.


5. “I summoned the FCDA and CGC yesterday to really come here today to see things for ourselves, not every time them telling you that they have done so so per cent of work. There was no equipment when I passed here yesterday. But I believe because I said I was coming here today, they have mobilised equipment. And these are things I will not accept.

6. “We have paid more than 80 per cent of this contract, and the job, as far as I am concerned they have not done up to 50 per cent..I have told the Director Engineering Services to go and sit down with CGC and bring up the work plan.

7. “CGC has told us that they are going to complete this work by May, well let them show their commitment that by May they are going to hand over this project. That’s the only way I am going to accept it. And you know that this road is very very important. When this road is completed, it will help decongest traffic and boost economic activities”.

8. The Minister who said the FCTA does not have any relationship with non performing contractors, stressed the need for routine inspections to ensure that projects are executed as scheduled, adding that relying on reports will not yield the desired result.

CALL ON THE CONTRACTORS TO DELIVER ON SCHEDULE

1. The FCT Minister, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike on Thursday, September 26, 2024 inspected the ongoing Apo-Karshi Road project as well as the newly awarded emergency rehabilitation of the Nyanya-Karshi road project with a call on the contractors to deliver on time.

2. Speaking with journalists after the inspection, Barrister Wike who said that the Apo-Karshi Road project was very dear to the Administration, expressed doubt that the Contractor – Messr Kakatar, could deliver on the April 2025 deadline as promised by the contractor.


3. He said, “We thought that within seven months they ought to have completed but unfortunately the contractor could not move to site because of some procurement processes. But thank God we have passed that stage now and they have also been mobilised.


4. “I still have my doubts, I will not lie to you, but the contractors are insisting that by April they would have completed this project. It is a project that is very dear to us. We know the importance of this road. So many people are eager to see that this road is completed on time so that it will ease off a lot of traffic. It will also boost the economic activities in this area.


5. “So let us give them (the contractor) the benefit of doubt and believe that they will play their own part. On our own part, we are doing what we are supposed to do. The funds are there to be given to them.


6. “And we believe that they should put more efforts. If I come back here again and see that they have improved on what we have seen on ground today, I will tell the treasury department to release further funds to them, but for now let’s watch them because we are very serious about this project”.


7. The Minister who said that government is a continuum, stressed that the benefit of moving on with the project far out weights the implication of abandoning it because of the myriads of issues surrounding the award of the project and the work being done, adding that the benefits for people were government’s main priority.

8. He said, “There a lot of things that happened in the award of this project but we try to move on and let people not think we are playing politics, but it wasn’t good at all, I can tell you that. But we have no choice than to see that the people do not suffer”.

FCT MINISTER INSPECTS PROPOSED BUILDING FOR NEW MINISTRY OF LIVESTOCK DEVELOPMENT AND THE KUGBO INTERNATIONAL MARKET

- …DIRECTS DEMOLITION OF STRUCTURES ON ROAD WAYS IN KUGBO INTERNATIONAL MARKET

- …DISCLOSE PLAN TO COMMENCE PROVISION OF BUILDING FOR NEW LIVESTOCK DEVELOPMENT MINISTRY



1. The FCT Minister, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has directed the Department of Development Control of the FCTA to embark on the demolition of structures obstructing road ways in the Kugbo International Market in Kugbo district of the FCT.


2. The Minister gave the directive on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, during an inspection tour of the Kugbo International Market under construction as well as the structure proposed to house the new Ministry,,13"_&& of Livestock Development in the Central Business District.


3. Barrister Wike who said that the Market was a Public Private Partnership (PPP) between the Abuja Investment Company (AICL) – an agency of the FCT Administration- and a private business organisation – Mesotho Group Limited also said a market of such magnitude was an investment worth encouraging.


4. He said, “This is an investment that should be encouraged. An international market of this standard. Though there are a lot of problems, there is encroachment, but I have directed the Department of Development Control to immediately demolish any structure that will cause an impediment. As you can see, this is a road corridor, and we will not allow that.


5. “The Development Control Director is here and has been ordered to immediately move in with his men to demolish whatever is an obstacle”.

6. The Minister also urged Messrs Mesotho Group to invest more funds to ensure the completion of the project. He said, “The investor should as a matter of fact put in more funds to see to the realisation of the entire market. I have asked him when he thinks the whole thing will be ready and he said we should give him till January.


7. “However, the first phase has been completed. So, we will therefore see what we can do to open the first phase. And some of these our traders on the road have to come in here and give us the free traffic that we deserve".

8. Speaking on the possibility of acquiring shops for the less privileged traders and entreprenuers under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the Minister said “We will do everything we can to support people. Those who have not indicated interest, we will see how, through the empowerment programme of the Renewed Hope Agenda in the FCT, we can see if we can put in some funds by taking some stores and giving to our people in order for them to be involved in one trade or the other.

9. “So, we will do everything to see that people move into the phase one of this market as quickly as possible. We are happy with what we have seen”.

10.The Minister who said that the Kugbo International Market will create a lot of employment opportunities for residents and improve the economy of the Territory, added that the market will also assist in the road decongestion efforts of the FCTA by ensuring that traders leave the roadsides and conduct their businesses in the market.


11.Barrister Wike stressed that the cost of the shops should not be the reason for traders to sell on the roads and added that the FCTA through the AICL will work with the investors to ensure fair pricing of shops in the market.


12.He said, “You don’t expect an investor to open up and you move in for free. Nobody does that and it should not be encouraged. And that is not why I will allow people to trade on the road. The issue before was that there is no market. Now market has been provided and you are saying it’s the cost. Anyway, we will also not allow the investor to take advantage of that and people cannot afford it. No.

13.“The Abuja Investment Company will sit down with the investor and see what agreement can be reached. Even if it means putting our own stake to see that people get allocation here”.

14. Also fielding questions on the building proposed for the use of the Ministry of Livestock Development, the Minister said it was a directive from the President, to the FCTA for the refurbishment of the 9 storey building.


15.The Minister who said the refurbishment of the building was considered an emergency, added that with the directive from Mr President, work will commence immediately, and the new Ministry will take ownership upon completion.

16.He said, “First of all, we have told you that we are doing emergency work. We are bringing in some companies to look at it and then we will take the most responsive bidder to handle the project… the most important thing is that we have gone there, the integrity test is ok and work will soon start”.


16.Present at the tour was the Executive Secretary, FCDA. Engr. Shehu Hadi Ahmad, the MD, Abuja Investment Company Limited, Ambassador Maureen Tamuno, and officials of the FCTA as well as the management of Mesotho Group Limited.

...Commends them for meritorious service in the FCT


1. Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has commended the immediate past FCT Commissioner of Police, Benneth Igweh, and the former Director, Department of State Security Services (DSS), FCT Command, Assistant Director General Ado Mu’azu for their meritorious services to the FCT in the course of their assignments in the nation’s capital.

2. Barr. Wike who made the commendation during a reception organized in honour of the duo at his official residence in Life Camp, Abuja, on Saturday, August 14, 2024 said their promotion is in recognition of their hard work and commitment to service to the nation.

3. The FCT Minister while acknowledging the contributions of Igweh to the protection of lives and property in the FCT said the reception was organized to recognize their efforts during their lifetime.

4. He stressed the importance of giving recognition to those deserving of such during their lifetime and thanked God Almighty for sparing their lives in the discharge of their duties in the FCT and subsequent elevation to higher ranks.

5. He said, “I’ve always said that people who are committed, people who make sacrifice ... I don’t believe it’s only when you die that people will honour and reward you.

6. “While you are alive and you have worked, you should be remembered and that is why we said these two gentlemen who have worked with us, to make all of us sleep well with our two eyes closed, it’s important we honour them, we thank them for their services”.

7. “All of us can attest to the fact that AIG Igweh is a committed police officer who is determined to fight criminality and criminals. We thank God Almighty that God saved his life.

8. Speaking on ADG Mu’azu, the Minister said “The Assistant Director General Mu’azu, very quiet but very committed. I thank the new DG of the State Security Services for seeing him worthy to be promoted for him to work at the national level”.

9. The Minister also thanked the Inspector General of Police, for appointing Bennett Igweh whom he described as a rugged officer that knows the terrain of the FCT as the AIG in charge of Zone 7 which comprises the FCT, Kaduna and Niger States.

...Calls for reduction in cost of construction


1. Minister of the FCT, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike on Saturday August 14, 2024 visited the Zeberced Limited Quarry, the biggest Quarry in West Africa, located in the Kubwa District of Abuja.

2. The FCT Minister stated that the visit was at the invitation of the Managing director of Zeberced Group, Ayden Adil Kurt to see the activities at the Quarry.

3. Barr. Wike who was impressed with the humongous scale of rock processing activities at the quarry, including the production of gravel, stone dust and asphalt amongst others commended the company for its efforts and commitment to the project.

4. The Minister who also said he was encouraged by the activities at the quarry, however, wondered why contractors still quoted exorbitant costs for construction projects in the FCT seeing as the essential raw materials were readily available at the quarry.

5. He said, “The Managing Director has always invited me to come to see what they are doing at the factory which is the biggest quarry in West Africa. I’ve taken the opportunity to look at the environment and see what they are doing.

6. “That shows that ordinarily, the cost of construction ought not to be very expensive, particularly in the FCT. Apart from the equipment that are being imported that are used for this quarry, the raw material is available here and I wonder why contractors will be talking about cost of aggregate as if these are imported. They are not imported. They are made here.

7. “So, I really want to encourage this company. It’s really amazing that we have this type of manufacturing going on here and from what the MD said, they have over 800 residents who are working directly here”.

8. The Minister who also expressed concerns over the environmental impact of the quarry however said he has been reassured by the Managing Director that the environmental impact assessment has shown that the company has adhered to the approved standard.

9. Barr. Wike further thanked the Zeberced Group for its decision to expand the access road to the Abuja Industrial Park, which is also being undertaken by the company at the Idu Industrial District and assured of continued support of the government.

10. He said, “This is the same company that is trying to carry out an Industrial Park at Idu and which we are going to give all the necessary support.

11. “As of yesterday, I’ve sent out a letter to the Ministry of Finance on the tax credit to enable them to carry out the other one-way carriage to make it a double carriage, which is being done by Salini Construction Company.

12. Earlier in his remark, the Managing Director, Zeberced Group, Ayden Adil Kurt, said the stone quarry has a production capacity of 3000 tons per hour.

The FCT Minister, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike on Saturday, September 7, 2024 signed two memoranda of understanding (MOU), with the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) and the China Geo-Engineering Corporation Overseas Construction (CGCOC) Group for the lighting up of the FCT using solar power and ensuring rural water supply.

While signing the documents with the two Chinese companies in Beijing, China as part of his visit to that country with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), Barr. Wike said the selected projects would be completed across the FCT in time for the celebration of Abuja at 50 in 2025.

The Minister stressed that the projects, which would further ensure the FCT's development, were pushed for by Mr. President at the just concluded FOCAC summit as part of his agenda to bring hope back to residents of the FCT.

...Joins President Tinubu for China-African Summit

Ahead of the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, FOCAC, Summit, FCT Minister, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, arrived Beijing, the Chinese capital on Monday, September 2, 2024.

The Minister is joining President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other African leaders and members of FOCAC to attend the event which aims to strengthen economic ties between China and Africa, with a focus on trade, development finance, and foreign direct investment.