The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed the commitment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to providing clean and accessible water to satellite towns in Abuja, describing the initiative as a top priority of the President.
Wike made the remarks in Abuja on Friday during an inspection of ongoing projects across the city. Responding to questions about his recent visit to China, the minister explained that the trip was a follow-up on a water supply project for Abuja’s satellite towns.
He disclosed that the FCT Administration (FCTA) had signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the China Geo-Engineering Corporation Overseas Construction Group (CGCOC) to deliver potable water to areas outside the Abuja city centre. Wike noted that the agreement stems from a presidential directive to ensure equitable development across both urban and rural parts of the FCT.
“President Tinubu has clearly stated that the provision of clean water must not be limited to the city. Satellite towns are equally entitled to this basic need,” Wike said. “This is a critical project for Mr President, and I am pleased to report that funds for the satellite town water supply have already been captured in the National Budget and the FCT’s Statutory Budget, which is now before the National Assembly.”
The minister revealed that the water project would kick off in Bwari, Karu, and parts of Kubwa, with the procurement process currently undergoing review at the Bureau of Public Procurement. He added that CGC, the contractor handling the Greater Abuja Water Supply project, would also implement this initiative.
Wike commended President Tinubu for his unwavering support in driving infrastructure and service delivery across multiple sectors in the FCT, including roads, education, and healthcare. According to him, 85% of the FCT’s statutory budget is earmarked for the completion of ongoing projects, with just 15% allocated to new initiatives.
“Beyond roads, we are investing heavily in healthcare and education,” he said. “If you see the number of schools being renovated, you’ll realise that education has been prioritised. In fact, N140 billion has been allocated for capital projects in the education sector alone.”
He reiterated that the administration’s focus was not on awarding new contracts, but rather completing abandoned and ongoing projects to ensure they deliver value to residents.
AICC and Road Projects to Mark Tinubu’s Second Year
In a separate development, Wike announced that the Abuja International Conference Centre (AICC), currently undergoing total renovation, will be the first project inaugurated by President Tinubu as part of events marking his second year in office.
Also Read: FCT Minister Wike Travels to China to Advance Water Supply Projects
Speaking after inspecting the site on Friday, the minister praised Julius Berger, the contractor handling the renovation, for maintaining high standards and meeting agreed timelines.
He lamented the previous state of disrepair of the AICC, which was built in 1991, describing it as unbefitting of a national conference venue. “Until now, no one had attempted to restore this edifice. Thanks to President Tinubu’s leadership, the AICC has been transformed into a world-class facility,” he said.
Wike also visited the extension project of Obafemi Awolowo Way (N5), stretching from Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III, also being handled by Julius Berger. He expressed confidence that the first phase of the road will be completed and commissioned as part of the second anniversary celebrations.
“This is a clear example of the Renewed Hope Agenda at work,” he stated. “The contractor’s dedication to quality and timely delivery is evident, and we’re excited to showcase these results to the public.”
Wike concluded that the FCT Administration remains committed to ensuring that all projects align with the vision of delivering lasting infrastructure and improved services to residents, in keeping with the aspirations of the Tinubu administration.
