Abuja: Wike Declares No More Extensions for FCT Road Projects After January, June Deadlines

Barr, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). While confirming major progress on important infrastructure projects in the N2 and N5 corridor, Nyesom Wike announced on Monday that the continuing enforcement for the payment of ground rent and other statutory costs will cease this week with no additional extensions.

Wike insisted that the FCT’s internal budget is the only source of funding for Abuja’s ambitious development drive while speaking during an inspection visit of ongoing projects by construction companies Julius Berger and Leventis.

“Certainly, it has to be the last time,” the minister declared in response to circulating notices regarding ground rent enforcement. Regretfully, the majority of Nigerians that voice complaints do not wish to follow the regulations.

Without people paying their taxes, we are unable to complete these projects. It is already more than four months, even though we extended it by two or three weeks. We will not be extending any farther after this.

He cautioned that owners who don’t comply run the risk of having their properties sealed.

Wike was pleased with Julius Berger’s work rate at the N5 corridor, pointing out that a project that had been on hold for years had suddenly advanced.

“We were here while this bridge was being built a few years ago. However, we are currently at the top of the bridge. Julius Berger has promised to produce N5 by the end of January.

We are quite pleased with the caliber of the work completed.

The minister previously revealed that Leventis is on schedule to finish the Central Area–Wuse connection road project by early June.

“The head work is still in progress, but they promised to finish it by the end of May or the first week of June. This road is crucial since it links Wuse with the center area.

Wike underlined that, contrary to popular belief, the national budget is not supporting the present construction wave in the Federal Capital Territory.

“The FCT 2025 budget is being implemented. We are utilizing that.

Although we anticipate receiving those funds by the end of the year, we have not gotten a single penny from this year’s national budget.

He continued by saying that the FCT budget’s emergency funding resources are being used to build the Central Area–Wuse connection road.

Concerns on the poor activity at recently opened bus terminals were addressed by Wike, who stated that the problem was procedural and would be fixed shortly.

It’s an agreement. Purchasing is still going on. We have to check how many fleets they have. By God’s grace, that will have been completed by year’s end.

It all comes down to following the proper procedures.

“We’re delivering, but residents need to contribute as well.”

Considering the rate of progress, Wike insisted that the administration has fulfilled its promises.

“We have no trouble carrying out the budget. The work is proceeding according to schedule. However, people are required to pay their taxes. If you don’t complete your commitments, you can’t appreciate these projects.