The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has accepted funds for the maintenance of the National Mosque and the National Christian Centre.
The Minister made this identified after routine inspections of each spiritual facilities in Abuja, on Thursday.
Wike mentioned he was happy with work finished at each the National Mosque and the Christian centre, regardless of the preliminary stoppage of work by contractors on account of further works to be finished.
He mentioned the Christian Centre had requested funds for Phase 2 of the renovation, noting that if the FCT didn’t have the funds to finish the undertaking, he’ll meet with President Bola Tinubu for extra funds.
He mentioned “Jobs were awarded for the maintenance of the two National Monuments, which is the Mosque and the Church, and the jobs stopped because there were additional works that ought to be done.
“I’m satisfied with all I have seen today and I have given the approval that the money should be released to the contractors to complete the additional project.
“While the Christian Center had requested for a phase II, which I said that I would look at the cost, if it is within what the Ministry of the FCT can build on its own, we would likely go ahead, but if it is what is above our threshold, we would have to go back to Mr. President for approval.”
Wike additional emphasised that the maintenance of each spiritual centres was half of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, and that the President was not in opposition to any faith, however was concerned about inclusivity for individuals of each faiths.
“What this tells you is that, it is in line with the agenda of Mr. President which is the Renewed Hope agenda of running an inclusive government, not abandoning National Monuments like this, which is part of our pride. Look at what we saw at the mosque, see the landscaping, look at what we have seen here in the church and the landscaping.
“They are built for the city and that is why I have said that Mr. President is not anti any religion. He takes all religions as one because we are all one Nigeria. Of course, you should know that he gave me the approval to come and visit these places and take up what it requires to be done.”
