As Nigeria marks the second anniversary of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, has undertaken a comprehensive inspection of critical infrastructure projects across Abuja. The inspection, which took place today, is part of preparations for a series of high-profile commissioning activities scheduled to commemorate the administration’s milestone.
Key Projects Nearing Completion
Barrister Wike, during his tour of strategic project sites, reaffirmed the FCT Administration’s (FCTA) commitment to delivering top-tier infrastructure that meets the needs of residents and aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Among the projects inspected was the International Conference Centre (ICC), which the Minister confirmed is now fully completed and ready for commissioning. Commending the contractor’s performance, he stated that the project reflected world-class standards and represented a critical boost to the capital city’s capacity to host international engagements.
Attention was also focused on Arterial Road N5, known as Obafemi Awolowo Way, stretching from Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III. The Minister disclosed that the road is 95% completed, with the contractor, Julius Berger, assuring delivery by the end of the week. Wike described the road as a vital artery for easing traffic flow and boosting economic activity in the FCT.
In addition, the Minister evaluated progress on Arterial Road N16, an interchange project connecting Maitama and Katampe districts via Gishiri. He announced that significant segments of the bridge infrastructure are already in use, including links to Judges Quarters and from Jahi to Wole Soyinka Way. He applauded CGC, the Chinese construction firm handling the project, for their diligence and adherence to timelines. “I am so happy that the contractors have lived up to expectations. The quality of work is superb,” Wike said, visibly pleased with the pace and quality of the projects.
He emphasized that the infrastructure push is a tangible manifestation of President Tinubu’s promise to improve road networks and public utilities across the capital.
Commissioning Schedule and Civic Participation
While the ICC was initially billed to be the first of the projects to be inaugurated, Wike revealed that parliamentary interest has prompted a rescheduling to ensure broader participation. As a result, Arterial Road N16 will now take precedence in the upcoming commissioning schedule.
This strategic shift, Wike said, reflects the FCT Administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and collaborative development.
Revenue Mobilization and Tax Enforcement
Beyond infrastructure, the Minister used the occasion to spotlight the critical issue of ground rent enforcement, underscoring the need for residents—especially property owners—to fulfill their civic obligations. “People want facilities, people want infrastructure, but nobody asks where the funds come from,” he said, lamenting the widespread failure to pay ground rents, some of which have been outstanding for decades.
Drawing comparisons with tax compliance in foreign jurisdictions, Wike pointed out that many elites own properties abroad and understand the consequences of non-compliance—often including forfeiture. However, he noted a lack of similar discipline in Nigeria. “Most elites own houses overseas; they know the implication of not paying your taxes… But when it comes to your own country, you don’t want to obey the law,” he remarked.
He reiterated the FCTA’s resolve to pursue defaulters, disclosing that the President has authorized a two-week grace period for residents to regularize their payments. He emphasized that enforcement would proceed without yielding to pressure or blackmail.
The Minister further disclosed that over 1,500 Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-Os) and Deeds of Assignment have been signed in recent weeks, urging citizens to reciprocate government efforts through timely payment of statutory charges.
Clarification on Security Incident
Addressing public concern over a recent incident at Mogadishu Cantonment (Abacha Barracks), the Minister sought to dispel misinformation suggesting a suicide bombing. He clarified that security agencies did not report any such occurrence. “What happened is that someone took an explosive device from a quarry site and it detonated in his pocket. It was not a suicide bomb attack,” Wike clarified, warning against sensationalism in media reporting.
He cautioned journalists and bloggers to practice responsible reporting, especially in matters that could incite panic or insecurity.
Reassurance of Safety in the FCT
On a broader note, Wike reassured Abuja residents of the FCTA’s unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and security across the territory. “We will continue to do what we need to do to allay the fears of residents. Abuja remains one of the most secure places in the country,” he asserted.
The Minister’s remarks reflect a multi-pronged approach to governance in the FCT—combining infrastructure development, revenue generation, and security assurance as cornerstones of sustainable urban administration.
As Abuja gears up for the commissioning of transformative projects under President Tinubu’s leadership, the FCT Administration remains focused on delivering a capital city that reflects national pride and global excellence.
Nzubechukwu Eze
