Wike issues stern warning to FCTA directors: Fast-track projects or face consequences
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has delivered a stern warning to directors within the FCT Administration, cautioning them against bureaucratic red tape that could impede the timely delivery of crucial road projects. In a decisive move aimed at expediting infrastructural development across rural communities in the FCT, Wike emphasized the imperative of swift action and accountability among administrative officials.
Addressing the issue head-on, Wike underscored the critical significance of rural road projects spanning the six Area Councils within the federal capital region. Expressing his unwavering commitment to the accelerated development of these communities, the Minister minced no words in conveying his expectations from the bureaucracy. “Once I grant approvals, the bureaucracy should be able to do its due diligence within seven days and ensure the release of funds,” he asserted firmly.
In a no-nonsense tone, Wike warned that any director found culpable of hindering the progress of approved projects through bureaucratic delays would face severe consequences. “Woe unto that director who will keep a file that I have approved for weeks,” he admonished, labeling such actions as sabotage against the developmental agenda. The Minister stressed the detrimental impact of delayed funds on contractors, highlighting the resultant escalation of project costs and the adverse effects on project timelines.
With a resolute determination to fulfill his promise of delivering tangible dividends of democracy to the people, Wike pledged to ensure the expeditious completion of all ongoing road projects across rural areas of the FCT before the end of 2024. This commitment extends to the inauguration of new projects, which are poised to enhance connectivity, promote economic growth, and improve access to essential services for rural dwellers.
The significance of this directive was underscored by Abdullahi Abubakar, Chairman of Abaji Area Council, who hailed the commencement of a pivotal road project linking Naharati, River Ukya, and Unguwan Hausawa. Recognizing the transformative potential of this infrastructure initiative, Abubakar emphasized its role in alleviating congestion, facilitating access to markets, schools, healthcare facilities, and bolstering economic activities within rural communities.
Echoing these sentiments according to report by NAN, the traditional council, represented by the Ona of Abaji, expressed gratitude to the Minister for prioritizing rural development and pledged unwavering support to ensure the success of ongoing projects. This collaborative effort between government and traditional institutions underscores a shared commitment to enhancing the quality of life and fostering sustainable development across rural areas of the FCT.
The proactive approach adopted by Wike’s administration has already borne fruit, with the inauguration of several crucial road projects spanning various Area Councils. These include a diverse range of infrastructure initiatives, such as an 11 km road in Kwali Area Council, a five km dual carriageway in Kuje, a nine km road in Gwagwalada, a 7.2 km road in Bwari, and now a five km road in Abaji Area Council. As these projects gather momentum, they pave the way for a brighter future, marked by enhanced connectivity, improved livelihoods, and sustainable development for rural communities across the FCT.
