The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a firm warning to contractors handling major infrastructure projects across Abuja, insisting that agreed timelines—especially those tied to the third anniversary of Bola Ahmed Tinubu—must be strictly met.
Speaking on Wednesday during an inspection tour of ongoing projects in the capital, Wike expressed dissatisfaction with delays by a contractor handling road works in Wuse, despite acknowledging the quality of work done so 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, directing that the project must be completed and handed over by the second week of June.
He reiterated that the FCT Administration remains committed to enforcing deadlines and ensuring accountability through regular project inspections.
“We don’t just sit in our offices. We go out to verify the quality of jobs and ensure contractors meet timelines,” he said.
Wike, however, commended contractors handling other key projects, including the N16 interchange and the Institutions and Research Centre near major academic institutions, describing their work as high quality and on schedule for commissioning.
At Tunga Madaki, where a vital access road and bridge linking Bill Clinton Drive on the Airport Road to surrounding communities is nearing completion, the minister expressed satisfaction with progress, noting the project’s importance in improving connectivity.
He explained that the road project became necessary following the construction of a second runway by the Ministry of Aviation, adding that the administration is already planning to extend the road from the bridge axis to Zuba. According to him, procurement processes and compensation arrangements for affected communities are underway.
Wike also highlighted ongoing investments in water supply, education, and healthcare across the FCT, noting that satellite water projects in Bwari, Karu, and Orozo are set for inauguration. He added that schools in satellite towns have been renovated and furnished, while contracts have been awarded for the rehabilitation of health facilities.
On the recent water shortage in parts of the Abuja Municipal Area Council, the minister attributed the disruption to damage caused to a major pipeline by a private developer. He warned that the government would investigate the incident and take appropriate action, including possible shutdown of the project responsible.
While appealing for patience, Wike assured residents that efforts are underway to resolve the issue promptly and prevent future occurrences.
He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to delivering impactful infrastructure projects across both the city centre and satellite communities, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
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