The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has declared a decisive end to the era of darkness and sabotage in Abuja’s streetlight system, assuring residents that the capital city will be fully illuminated within the next seven months.
Wike, who spoke at the official flag-off of the Installation of Integrated (Hybrid) Solar Lighting in Abuja Districts, Lot I and II, described the project as a landmark intervention to restore security, safety, and the city’s global image.
“Today’s event is very difficult in the sense that this project is important but has given us a lot of headache. Not in conceptualization, but in how it will work, because in this country, people are always sabotaging government efforts. When we came on board in August 2023, almost 80 percent of Abuja was in darkness. Darkness breeds insecurity, and we could not continue that way,” the minister said.
The N30 billion project, undertaken in partnership with Chinese firms CGC and CCECC, will feature modern surveillance systems to deter cable theft and vandalism, while placing maintenance responsibility on contractors for the next four to five years a move Wike said will save the administration huge financial losses.
“If I tell you how much we spent every month on streetlight maintenance, you will be shocked. Political contractors were taking money, yet the city remained dark. This time, there will be no more files for maintenance because the companies will bear that responsibility. With surveillance and security features, it will no longer be business as usual for vandals and saboteurs,” he stressed.
The minister acknowledged that entrenched interests might resist the project through propaganda, political blackmail, and ethnic or religious sentiments but maintained that the administration would not be deterred.
“From today, you will hear all sorts of names. Some will go to social media, others will use television and radio, but we are not bothered. We have taken a decision in the best interest of the people and, by the grace of God, Abuja will shine again,” Wike vowed.
He added that the initiative, which will be completed ahead of Abuja’s 50th anniversary next February, will not only enhance security and beauty but also create jobs and promote the FCT as a smart, modern city ready to host international events.
Also speaking, the FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, said the project goes beyond providing streetlights, noting its role in sustainability and environmental protection.
“This project will improve security for residents and businesses, promote clean and renewable energy, and reduce the city’s carbon footprint. More importantly, it aligns with the Administration’s Smart City Agenda, making Abuja a model for sustainable urban living,” Mahmoud stated.
The project is expected to transform Abuja’s night-time outlook, boost safety, and eliminate years of financial leakages associated with streetlight maintenance.
