Wike Leads Final Inspection Ahead of Commissioning of Major FCT Projects

As the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) prepares to commission key infrastructure projects in Abuja this week, the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, on Monday led a final inspection tour of completed sites, expressing satisfaction and gratitude for the successful delivery.

The inspection tour on June 9 included top engineers from the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), contractors, and journalists. Wike described the moment as one of the happiest of his life, noting the projects were completed despite economic challenges.

“We are highly elated. First, we thank God Almighty for His grace. At a time when people say things are difficult, we have delivered critical infrastructure to the people,” Wike said after the tour.

He credited the milestone to visionary leadership and the unwavering support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu under the Renewed Hope Agenda. “We are grateful to Mr. President for his commitment to FCT’s development. These achievements show what focus and good governance can deliver,” he added.

Projects inspected during the tour include:

• The newly renovated International Conference Centre (ICC),
• Arterial Road N5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way), completed by Julius Berger Nigeria Plc,
• Arterial Road N16, from Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway to Wole Soyinka Way,
• The 15-kilometre Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX II) linking Apo and Wasa districts, handled by CGC.

Wike emphasized that political will and proper supervision made the difference, not just financial resources. “It is not about having all the money but managing what you have wisely and taking responsibility,” he said.

On overcoming bureaucratic hurdles, the minister stated, “Yes, bureaucracy is a problem, but when you set clear targets and refuse to lower standards, people fall in line.”

He also lauded contractors for keeping to agreed timelines and quality standards. “We have personally supervised these projects. I can confirm the contractors delivered as promised,” he said.

Regarding the ICC, Wike announced that Julius Berger, the contractor, would also manage and maintain the facility post-commissioning to ensure sustainability. “No politician or third party will take over this facility. Anyone who uses it must pay, and the funds will go directly to its maintenance,” he said firmly.

The Minister added that local staff have been trained to manage the new technology deployed at the sites, assuring residents that operations will begin immediately after this week’s commissioning ceremonies.

“We are ready. The facilities are ready. This is the new standard for project execution in the FCT,” he concluded.

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