The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a firm warning to contractors handling major infrastructure projects in Abuja, stating that no deadline extensions will be granted for projects tied to inauguration plans marking President Bola Tinubu’s third anniversary in office.
Speaking during an inspection tour of ongoing works across the capital on Wednesday, Wike expressed dissatisfaction with delays on certain projects, particularly a road construction site in Wuse, although he acknowledged the quality of work being delivered in some areas.
“We agreed that by the end of May or June, the job would be delivered, but what we heard today is different. I’m not going to accept that,” he said, directing that the project must be completed and handed over by the second week of June.
The minister explained that the inspection exercise was part of routine monitoring to ensure accountability, quality assurance, and strict adherence to project timelines across the territory.
“We do not just sit in our offices. We go out to verify the quality of jobs and ensure contractors meet timelines,” he added.
While criticizing delays in some projects, Wike commended contractors handling other key infrastructure, including the N16 Interchange, noting that the quality of work there met expectations and would be ready for inauguration.
At Tunga Madaki, where a road and bridge project connecting Bill Clinton Drive along the Airport Road corridor is nearing completion, the minister praised the progress, saying the development was necessary to improve access following the construction of a second runway by the Ministry of Aviation.
He also revealed plans to extend the road network from the bridge axis to Zuba, with procurement and compensation processes for affected communities already underway.
Wike further stated that the FCT Administration is expanding development efforts beyond roads, including investments in water supply, education, and healthcare infrastructure across the capital and satellite towns.
He announced that satellite water projects in Bwari, Karu, and Orozo would soon be inaugurated, alongside the renovation and furnishing of schools and rehabilitation of healthcare facilities.
Addressing recent water shortages in parts of the Abuja Municipal Area Council, Wike attributed the disruption to damage caused to a major pipeline by a private developer, warning that sanctions could follow if necessary.
“If necessary, we will shut down that project because no one should inconvenience the public for personal gain,” he said.
The minister reaffirmed that the FCT Administration remains committed to delivering infrastructure projects in line with the Renewed Hope agenda of the Tinubu administration, aimed at improving urban development and service delivery in the nation’s capital.
