FCT Approves ₦33.24 Billion for Infrastructure Development to Boost Abuja’s Growth

[keypoints]

• The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Executive Committee, led by Minister Nyesom Wike, approved a ₦33.24 billion budget for infrastructure projects aimed at improving the quality of life in Abuja, focusing on transportation, airport infrastructure, and essential services.
• Key projects include ₦9.88 billion for Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport upgrades, ₦7.22 billion for access roads to Kugbo and Mabushi Terminals, and ₦2.92 billion for energy supply to the Wupa Basin Sewage Treatment Plant, among others.
• The infrastructure initiatives are expected to enhance connectivity, boost economic growth, improve public facilities, and create job opportunities for residents, supporting Abuja’s rapid urban development.

[/keypoints]

FCT Approves ₦33.24 Billion for Infrastructure Development to Boost Abuja’s Growth

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Executive Committee, led by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, has approved a budget of ₦33.24 billion for critical infrastructure projects aimed at elevating the quality of life in Abuja.

The allocation, approved in the committee’s ninth session, focuses on upgrading key areas such as transportation, airport infrastructure, and essential services, aiming to improve connectivity, service delivery, and urban development.

Key Projects and Allocations

The funding covers six major projects that are expected to drive economic growth, enhance public facilities, and generate employment for residents.

1. Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport Rehabilitation—₦9.88 Billion
   • The largest portion, ₦9.88 billion, has been awarded to Julius Berger for significant upgrades at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. The project includes reconstructing Bill Clinton Road, which provides access to the airport’s Presidential Wing, and improvements to hangars, taxiways, and aprons. According to Mr. Shehu Ahmad, Executive Secretary of the FCT Development Authority, this will improve airport capacity and government operations.
2. Access Roads to Kugbo and Mabushi Terminals: 7.22 Billion
   • A budget of ₦7.22 billion is designated for the construction of access roads connecting Kugbo and Mabushi Bus and Taxi Terminals to main routes, aiming to streamline public transit for Abuja residents. Dr. Chinedum Elechi, Mandate Secretary of the Transportation Secretariat, highlighted that these roads will enhance transit flow and accessibility.
3. Energy Supply for Wupa Basin Sewage Treatment Plant: 2.92 Billion
   • To ensure a reliable energy supply for Abuja’s sanitation, $2.92 billion is allocated for fuel procurement to power the Wupa Basin Sewage Treatment Plant. This includes 120,000 litres of diesel and 40,250 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), ensuring effective waste management across the FCT.
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4. Access Roads to EFCC Academy: ₦7.83 Billion
   • With ₦7.83 billion set aside, this project will provide access roads to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Academy in Giri District, enhancing accessibility and supporting operational effectiveness for the anti-corruption agency.
5. Staff Quarters for Nigerian Law School, Bwari: ₦2.19 Billion
   • To improve working conditions for staff at the Nigerian Law School in Bwari, ₦2.19 billion has been allocated to construct staff quarters, aiming to boost overall efficiency and productivity within the institution.
6. FCT Legal Secretariat Enhancements: 605.94 Million
   • The FCT Legal Secretariat will receive ₦605.94 million for office equipment and utility vehicles, which are expected to improve departmental operations.

Expected Impact

Mr. Chidi Amadi, Chief of Staff to the FCT Minister, emphasised the committee’s commitment to addressing infrastructure needs across Abuja. The projects are anticipated to boost the city’s economy by enhancing transportation networks, supporting tourism and business travel through airport improvements, and creating numerous job opportunities for residents.

The FCT’s infrastructure overhaul represents a comprehensive strategy to support Abuja’s rapid growth, with the aim of fostering sustainable urban development while improving residents’ quality of life.