Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has expressed confidence that contractors handling major road projects across the territory will meet their December completion deadlines. Wike made this statement after inspecting ongoing projects at N1, Tunga Madaki–Zuba and Kagini. He commended the contractors for maintaining a strong commitment to the delivery schedule despite disruptions caused by the rainy season.
Wike stated that he was particularly impressed by the progress of work and the commitment demonstrated by the contractors. He recalled that the FCT Administration had promised residents that the projects would be delivered before the end of the year, describing their completion as a Christmas gift from the Tinubu administration. The minister emphasized that the projects would form part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Christmas gift” to residents.
The FCT Minister noted that the projects would have an economic impact on communities along the affected corridors. He stated that improved infrastructure would make residents happier and stimulate economic activities. According to Wike, the visible impact of infrastructure projects in rural communities underscores the importance of government delivering projects that directly affect residents.
Wike admitted that the rains had slowed construction activities but expressed optimism that construction work would accelerate from the first week of October. He stated that he was now convinced that the contractors would make up for lost time once the weather improves. The minister also attributed his confidence in the contractors' ability to deliver to their experience, having worked with them before.
The minister defended the use of loans to finance infrastructure projects, insisting that borrowing by government requires the approval of the National Assembly and must be reflected in the budget. Wike argued that the critical issue should be how borrowed funds are utilised. He expressed satisfaction with the progress of work and the commitment of the contractors.
Wike stated that the experience of the contractors was another reason for his confidence in their ability to deliver. He noted that these contractors had worked for the FCT Administration before, and he was aware of their capacity. The minister expressed happiness with what he had seen during the inspection, adding that governance is about making people happy.
The completion of the projects is expected to bring happiness to residents and stimulate economic activities in the affected communities. Key points include:
Key points
- Contractors are expected to meet December deadlines for major road projects.
- The projects will form part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Christmas gift” to residents.
- Improved infrastructure is expected to stimulate economic activities in communities along the affected corridors.
