In a significant development, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, announced the disbursement of N50 billion by the Ministry of Finance for ongoing capital projects in the FCT. This release constitutes 50% of the N100 billion 2023 supplementary budget approved by the National Assembly.
Following an inspection tour of various projects, Wike expressed satisfaction with the quality of work and directed the prompt disbursement of payments to contractors involved in the projects.
“I am happy to announce to you that the Ministry of Finance has released 50% of the national supplementary budget. That, in a way, has given us hope that the contractors will be paid anytime from now,” stated Wike.
He also highlighted that the FCT Statutory Budget had received assent, ensuring that no project would be left incomplete. Wike emphasized his commitment to fulfilling promises, assuring residents that the renewed hope agenda was more than mere rhetoric.
Despite acknowledging challenges encountered during project delivery, Wike expressed optimism, stating, “With the kind of support from President Bola Tinubu, there are no challenges that would not be surmountable.”
Projects inspected included the Outer Southern Expressway, Northern N-20 Expressway, and the Vice President’s residence. Contractors, including China Geo-Engineering Corporation (CGC) Nigeria Limited and Gilmor Construction firm, reassured the minister of meeting project timelines.
Yong Hong, Area Manager of CGC Nigeria Ltd., pledged the timely delivery of the Outer Southern Expressway before May, while Julius Berger’s representative, Mr Oliver Berger, highlighted progress on the Vice President’s residence project, affirming readiness to transition plans and procurement into action.
In his concluding remarks, the minister reiterated the commitment to residents, stating, “We are happy with what we have seen, and we will continue to do things to the satisfaction of the residents of Abuja and assure them that the renewed hope agenda is not a mere talk. So, it is a promise and a promise kept.”
