The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has inaugurated the rehabilitation of 135 roads in Abuja, while cautioning contractors against contract variations that could delay the project. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony on Monday, Mr. Wike emphasized that the project should be completed within the agreed timeline of six months.
In his address, the Minister assured the contractors that the FCT would promptly pay them to facilitate timely completion of the project. He warned against any attempts to introduce contract variations, asserting that such tactics would not be tolerated. “We have the money to pay you. So, if you like to go to engineering services and do anything with them, it will not work. We are paying you your money, and I assure you that nobody will owe you a dime,” Mr. Wike stated.
Furthermore, Mr. Wike made it clear that he would not entertain any requests for reconsideration or unexpected issues, noting that everything had already been considered and anticipated. He called on residents to support the contractors during the rehabilitation process, emphasizing that development often comes with temporary inconveniences.
The Minister also sought the support of traditional rulers in ensuring the cooperation of youths and all residents of the communities involved. He expressed gratitude to the Chairman of Abuja Municipal Area Council, Mr. Christopher Maikalangu, for publicly declaring the council chairmen’s readiness to collaborate with the FCT Administration.
The Minister of State, FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, highlighted the significant achievements of the FCT Administration in the transformation of the capital city during the first three weeks of Mr. Wike’s administration. According to Mrs. Mahmoud, the issue of streetlights has been addressed and sanitation problems are being attended to. She added that the road infrastructure would undergo transformations aimed at positively impacting the residents of Abuja.
The Permanent Secretary of the FCT Administration, Olusade Adesola, explained that the rehabilitation project involves upgrading and repairing 135 existing roads and bridges across different districts of the FCT. He affirmed the transformative nature of the project, stating that it would significantly improve the lives of the residents. Adesola urged the contractors to adhere to the agreed timeline to ensure timely project delivery, assuring them that payment for their work is readily available.
The Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority, Mr. Ahmed Hadi, emphasized the deterioration of a substantial number of roads developed in Phase I since 1980. He outlined the scope of the project, which includes scarification, removal of existing asphalt in some areas, and asphalt overlay in others. The rehabilitation will cover 42 kilometres across Wuse, Garki, Maitama, and Asokoro, resulting in enhanced traffic flow, reduced travel time, and improved road safety.
The Chairman of the House Committee on FCT, Mr. Muktar Betara, expressed confidence in Mr. Wike’s ability to deliver on the transformative agenda for the FCT. He assured the Minister of the committee’s support in making the FCT the desired destination for all Nigerians. The Ona of Abaji, Adamu Yunusa, and the Chairman of the Abuja Municipal Area Council, Christopher Maikalangu, also offered their gratitude and pledged their support to ensure the successful completion of the projects.
Obada Zabadne, CEO of ZBMC Ltd, representing the contractors, expressed gratitude for the government’s confidence and trust in their ability to deliver quality projects. He affirmed the contractors’ commitment to exceeding expectations within the agreed timeline.
Conclusion
The rehabilitation of 135 roads in Abuja marks a significant step towards improving the infrastructure and quality of life for residents. With strict warnings against contract variations and a commitment to timely payments, the Minister of the FCT ensures that the project will progress smoothly. The support of residents and traditional rulers is vital in achieving successful and timely completion of the rehabilitation. As the project unfolds, Abuja can look forward to enhanced traffic flow, reduced travel time, and safer roads in the near future.
