By Sofiat Adenekan-Abdul
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has issued a firm directive to contractors handling major infrastructure projects in Abuja, declaring that all works slated for commissioning in honour of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s third anniversary must be completed by June.
Wike gave the warning on Wednesday during an extensive inspection tour of ongoing projects across the capital city, stressing that the timelines are “non-negotiable.”
“We agreed that by the end of May or June that job will be delivered, but what we heard today is different. I’m not going to accept that,” the minister said. “By the second week of June, that project must be handed over.”
The FCT minister expressed dissatisfaction over delays recorded on a key road project in Wuse, despite acknowledging the quality of work already executed. He noted that routine inspections are critical to ensuring contractors remain accountable and deliver according to agreed standards.
“We don’t just sit in our offices. We go out to verify the quality of jobs and ensure contractors meet up with timelines,” he added.
Wike, however, commended progress on several other flagship projects, including the N16 Interchange and the Institutions and Research Centre, describing them as on track for commissioning.
“At the N16 interchange, the quality of work speaks for itself. The contractor has assured us it will be ready for inauguration,” he said.
At Tunga Madaki, the minister revealed that a major road and bridge project linking Bill Clinton Drive to surrounding communities is nearing completion and will significantly improve connectivity within the area.
He further disclosed plans to extend the road corridor to Zuba, noting that procurement processes and compensation arrangements are already underway.
Beyond road infrastructure, Wike said the FCT Administration is ramping up investments in critical sectors such as water supply, education, and healthcare. He disclosed that several projects in Bwari, Karu, and Orozo are lined up for commissioning as part of the anniversary activities.
Addressing recent water shortages in parts of the Abuja Municipal Area Council, the minister blamed the disruption on damage to a major pipeline by a private developer.
“A major pipe was damaged during a private development. If necessary, we will shut down that project because no one should inconvenience the public for personal gain,” he warned.
Wike assured residents that repair works are ongoing and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to delivering impactful infrastructure that meets
