…harps On Maintenance Culture of Public Facilities
Remi Johnson
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Dr Nyesom Wike has reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to completing ongoing key infrastructure projects, including International Conference Center,ICC, before the second anniversary of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
Wike who gave the assurance in Abuja during an inspection tour of ICC and other road projects in Gishiri – Katampe and Jahi Districts, also stressed the need for maintenance culture.
Inspecting Gishiri Interchange, the Minister expressed gratitude for the President’s support in driving infrastructure development across the capital city, emphasing his readiness to see that the projects are completed unhindered.
Wike expressed satisfaction at the progress attained on the various road projects, including the connecting roads leading to Judge’s Quarters and those undertaken by the China Geo-Engineering Corporation (CGC).
“I have never been disappointed in my life, and I don’t see failure. I welcome challenges, and I believe that’s what we are here for is to tackle and overcome them. So, for now, we don’t foresee any obstacles.
“We are here at this interchange. This is called Gishiri. Behind us, you go to Maitama. The companies in Gishiri have been cooperative, and the necessary demolitions have been carried out to facilitate the road construction being handled by Gilmore,” Wike said.
Providing an update on budget and funding on the FCT’s fiscal plans, the Minister stated that the 2025 budget had been approved by the FCT Executive Committee and had been submitted for transmission to the National Assembly.
“As of yesterday, I sent our 2025 budget. Mr. President is expected to transmit it today or tomorrow. The 2024 budget will expire in June, and the funds allocated for ongoing projects are still being utilized. However, we anticipate challenges in funding once the 2025 budget is passed,” he explained.
The Minister also emphasized the importance of maintaining public infrastructure, citing the international conference center as a key example.
According to Wike, the government would enter a maintenance contract to ensure the ICC facility remains in optimal condition.
He further stressed the need for an international-standard conference center in Nigeria, acknowledging past challenges in managing public assets.
“One problem we have in our society is a lack of maintenance culture, which is very bad. This time, we are going to have a maintenance contract. Those who rent the facility will generate revenue, which will be used to sustain the company responsible for its upkeep,
“Instead of rushing to build a second conference center, let us first ensure that the one we have is well-maintained,” Wike said.
The FCT Minister also noted that additional work would commence under CGC’s supervision, alongside other projects and assured that by the grace of God, all these roads would be inaugurated in the coming year.
With the ongoing ICC and road projects near completion for commission in May-June 2025, residents anticipate enhanced economic activities, improved urban mobility,significant transformation in Abuja’s road network and public facilities.