***Says Sustainability Key to FCT Projects
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has declared that the newly completed Abuja International Conference Centre will be professionally maintained to global standards, stressing that sustainability—not political patronage—will define its future.
Speaking during an inspection of key projects across the capital city, Wike said the FCT Administration has entered an agreement with construction giant Julius Berger to manage and maintain the Conference Centre after completion, ensuring the facility does not suffer the fate of poorly maintained public infrastructure.
“We will not hand this place over to any politician. Maintenance is our biggest challenge in Nigeria, and we want to change that narrative,” the Minister said.
“Julius Berger, which built this center, will be responsible for its maintenance. We are finalizing a proper agreement where every user of the facility will contribute to its upkeep.”
Wike assured that the Centre would commence operations shortly after commissioning, adding that Nigerian personnel already trained under expert supervision are fully prepared to run the facility.
“There’s no need to worry about the technology. It’s not complicated, and our staff are ready. The company that installed the systems will also handle maintenance to ensure functionality,” he said.
Highlighting the broader vision behind recent infrastructure delivery in the FCT, Wike emphasized that sustainability, accountability, and strong leadership have driven results despite limited resources and bureaucratic hurdles.
“Everything comes down to leadership. Once you set clear goals and remain committed, results will follow,” he said.
“You don’t need unlimited resources; you just need to manage what you have effectively. Bureaucracy can slow things down, but if your vision is clear, people will align.”
The Minister, accompanied by top officials, inspected several projects including the Nigeria–São Tomé & Príncipe Investment Freezone Enterprise (NSIFE), Gishiri Road, Onesex District, and the new development in Wassa. He commended the quality of work by construction firms and described the progress as one of his administration’s proudest moments.
“At a time when Nigerians are facing economic challenges, we are still able to deliver critical infrastructure,” he said.
“We thank God for the opportunity, and we appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support.”
Wike also revealed that some infrastructure like the emergency A2-Pia road project were completed under tough financial constraints, showcasing the FCTA’s resolve to respond swiftly to the needs of residents.
As Abuja continues to expand, the Minister said the FCT Administration remains focused on projects that not only se
rve immediate needs but are built to last, with systems in place to prevent future decay.
“We are not just building infrastructure—we are building institutions and setting standards. That is the legacy we want to leave behind,” he concluded.
