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Tag: Wike

  • Abuja Airport: FCTA to pay N825.8m compensation for construction of 2nd runway – Wike

    Abuja Airport: FCTA to pay N825.8m compensation for construction of 2nd runway – Wike

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Mr Nyesom Wike, says the FCT Administration (FCTA) will pay N825.8 million as compensation for the construction of second runway for Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

    Wike stated this in Abuja on Tuesday, while briefing newsmen at the end of a closed-door meeting with members of the Jiwa community and other stakeholders.

    He said that the amount would be paid through the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) for compensation and resettlement of the people of the community affected by the project.

    He added that as part of the incentive, 12 people from the community would be employed by the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and its agencies and 10 by FCTA.

    He added that the government would also construct the Tunga Madaki bridge along with a five-kilometre road from the bridge to the community for easy movement of the people.

    The minister explained that the project would be captured in the 2024 budget of the FCTA.

    Wike also said that FCTA would equally provide a modern health facility to provide quality health care services for people of the community.

    He said that an undertaking would be signed based on the agreement between the government and the community.

    He identified the signatories as the permanent secretaries of FCTA and ministry of aviation, the Chief of Jiwa, the Chairman, Abuja Municipal Council and the Commissioner, Public Complaint Commission.

    “If that is done today, and tomorrow or next tomorrow the money is paid to them, contractors will no longer delay. They have to move to the site immediately and commence work.

    “So, the second runway has come to stay,” he said.

    He said that the current administration was determined to ensure that the second runway was delivered.

    He commended the Chief of Jiwa, Alhaji Isa Idris, for mobilising his people to attend the meeting to resolve the crises.

    His counterpart, Mr Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, said that he met the issue on his table, adding that the project ought to have been delivered in July.

    Keyamo said that the contractors could not be mobilised because of the issue of compensation.

    Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, FCTA, Mr Olusade Adesola, said that the completion of the project requires the support of all relevant stakeholders.

    Adesola commended Wike for the intervention to ensure a quick resolution of the issue.

    Dr Emmanuel Meribole, Permanent Secretary, Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, said that the project was approved by the Federal Executive Council in March 2022.

    Meribole said that the project was awarded to four contractors in April, with CCECC Nigeria Limited as the major contractor.

    He, however, said that the project was stalled because of the disagreement over compensation to the affected community members.

    Earlier, the Chief of Jiwa, said that the ministry of aviation through its consultant had earlier pegged the compensation at N2.5 million per hectare, for the 12,000 hectares allocated for the project.

    Idris further said that the amount was later reviewed downward to N700,000 per hectare when FCTA took over the discussion as the rightful authority to determine how much compensation to be paid.

    He said that the community took the matter to the Public Complaint Commission with a view to resolve the issue amicably.

    The community leader said that his people were concerned that the N700,000 being offered per hectare would not be enough for the affected persons to acquire another land.

  • FCT to reintroduce monthly sanitation – Wike

    FCT to reintroduce monthly sanitation – Wike

    Mr Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, says the ministry has concluded plans to reintroduce monthly sanitation as part of strategies to keep the city clean.

    Wike stated this in Abuja on Monday, after a closed-door meeting with contractors handling different projects in the FCT.

    He said that he had already briefed President Bola Tinubu on the idea that at least two Saturdays in a month would be declared for sanitation from 7a.m. to 10 a.m.

    He explained that the move would enable companies supporting the FCT with logistics to go to market, and other public places to evacuate refuse.

    According to him, for Abuja to be clean, everybody has to cooperate.

    “We must all make sacrifices. There is nothing like we are going to suffer. You also contribute to refuse.

    “So, if you spare three hours on a Saturday at home, to clear the refuse and bring them out for us to evacuate and dispose, then that is the little way you can help.

    “We are appealing to you (residents) to cooperate with us so we can achieve our goals.”

    On streetlights, the minister said that there were some improvements: “We are not there yet, but I can assure you that everywhere in Abuja will be lit up.”

    For those who have distorted the Abuja Master Plan, Wike said that the issue would soon be addressed.

    He added that the Federal Capital Territory Administration was working out which areas the parks and the greens were supposed to be and those that were built on.

    He also said that the government would look into those who refused to develop their plots for many years.

    Wike said that the President Tinubu-led administration would not continue to allow undeveloped land across the city where criminals were taking refuge.

    “How can you have empty land in the city and allow people to build shanties on them because you did not develop them.

    “Some properties were built for 20 years but not completed. Go and see what is happening there, criminals have taken over the place and as a serious government, we will not allow that.

    “We want to make Abuja a safe environment, but we can’t do it alone; we require the support of every stakeholder,” the minister said.

    He also said that attention would be given to satellite towns beginning with a visit to the areas to determine the needs and decide on what can be done to improve their facilities and infrastructure.

    He pointed out that there was no funding to intervene in all the satellite towns at the same time but one at a time subject to the availability of funds.

    “It is unfortunate that contracts were awarded in virtually all the satellite towns but where is the funding?  The finding is not there,” Wike said.

    He said that what was approved for FCT in the 2022 national budget was N15 billion for “not less than a trillion naira worth of contracts”, stressing the need for the ministry to prioritise its spending.

  • Wike frowns at congratulatory billboards, advertorials as FCT minister

    Wike frowns at congratulatory billboards, advertorials as FCT minister

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has requested well-wishers to refrain from placing congratulatory billboards in his honour.

    The Director of Press, Office of the Minister, Mr Anthony Ogunleye, stated this in a statement in Abuja on Sunday.

    “The attention of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has been drawn to lamp post billboards, full scale billboards and other adverts congratulating him on his appointment as minister.

    “While the minister deeply appreciates the warm wishes and support of the citizens, he kindly, but strongly requests that such billboards and advertisements be discontinued forthwith.

    “The minister acknowledges the overwhelming goodwill from the residents of the FCT and beyond and understands the sentiment behind these congratulatory displays and is genuinely touched by the show of support.

    “However, in the spirit of public service and commitment to his responsibilities, the minister wishes to focus his full attention on assisting President Bola Tinubu in realising his vision and renewed hope agenda for Nigeria,” he said.

    Ogunleye said that Wike’s foremost duty lies in contributing to the development and growth of the FCT and the well-being of residents and the nation as a whole.

    He added that the minister held in high regard, the aspirations and expectations of the FCT residents, and he remained dedicated to fulfilling his role with utmost sincerity and dedication.

    According to him, this can be achieved by concentrating all efforts on the task at hand and joining hands with public servants to serve the country to the best of their abilities.

    “Wike sincerely hopes that the public will understand his perspective and continue to extend their support and cooperation.

    “He looks forward to working hand in hand with all stakeholders to build a stronger, more prosperous, and united FCT and Nigeria,” the director said.

  • Wike sets date to complete Abuja City Gate Road to Constitution Avenue

    Wike sets date to complete Abuja City Gate Road to Constitution Avenue

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has promised to complete the construction of B6 and B12 roads, linking Constitution Avenue to City Gate, Abuja, in the next seven months.

    Wike, who gave the assurance after a tour of some abandoned projects in Abuja on Thursday, added that the renovation of the Federal Secretariat would also be completed within seven to eight months.

    According to reports, one of the abandoned projects visited was the Vice President’s residence, awarded since 2010.

    Another project visited was the residence of the presiding officers of the National Assembly, close to the National Assembly complex, awarded in 2009.

    The minister, in company of the Minister of State for FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, and the Permanent Secretary, FCT Administration, Mr Adesola Olusade, also visited Millennium Tower construction site, at Central Area, Abuja.

    The Millennium Tower is a multifunctional edifice with facilities for cultural exposition, tourism, socialisation, recreation, hospitality, and commercial activities.

    Wike said that he does not like giving excuses, adding that he would do the best he can to deliver some of the projects, adding that those that the ministry cannot deliver, he would run to President Bola Tinubu for help.

    He described the road linking the city gate to constitution avenue as a “very important infrastructure” that would change the landscape of Abuja.

    He said that the construction company had promised to deliver the project in the next seven months if funds were made available.

    He added that Julius Berger had also promised to deliver the renovation of the Federal Secretariat within seven to eight months.

    “I want to assure you that in the next six to seven months the two projects would be completed,” he said.

    On the residence of the Vice President and presiding officers of the National Assembly, the minister said that he would report to President Tinubu to agree on a way forward.

    He described the Millennium building as a “very interesting facility” that ought to turn Abuja around, and bring tourists and families to have fun.

    “We know we are going to face some challenges and we are here to solve problems. If there were no problem, President Tinubu would not have been here.

    “He promised Nigerians that he knows their challenges and he will do anything he could to surmount them.

    “Before we were sworn in, Mr president had told me and the Minister of State, to do everything we can to bring back some of the structures and facilities that will make Abuja a world class city.

    “One of them is the road network and facilities like the Millennium Tower that will bring tourists and families to come around and have fun,” he said.

    He acknowledged the challenge of funding, adding that he would sit with the Minister of State for FCT and Permanent Secretary, FCTA, to restructure how some of the projects were being funded.

    He also said that another strategy he would employ was to attach funds to a specific project and complete the project instead of allocating N500 million every year to a project of over N150 billion.

    “It means that in the next 20 years, you cannot complete the project. So, what is the benefit of wasting public funds? He asked.

    “Fund is a challenge, yes, but we are here to solve such a challenge.” the minister said.

    Other officials in the minister’s entourage were the Executive Secretary, Federal Capital Development Authority, Mr Shehu Hadi, and other directors and top management officials of the FCTA.

  • Abuja building collapse: Wike orders arrest of landlord, victims count losses

    Abuja building collapse: Wike orders arrest of landlord, victims count losses

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike has, ordered the arrest of the owner of the two-storey building that collapsed on Wednesday night at Lagos Street, Garki Village, Abuja.

    The FCT Emergency Management Agency (FCT FEMA) said in a statement that two victims have died, while 37 others were evacuated and taken to the hospital.

    Wike, who gave the order when he visited the scene of the incident on Thursday, also asked the Permanent Secretary, FCT Administration, Mr Adesola Olusade, to pay the medical bills of those hospitalised.

    The minister also urged the Department of Development Control, FCTA, to urgently resettle the residents of the community.

    He urged stakeholders to work with government officials for the interest of everyone.

    “This is what we are talking about; people just built houses without due diligence to minimum standards.

    “This is why cities are planned – forestall this kind of incidents.

    “I sympathise with those who lost their lives while the medical bills of those in the hospitals will be paid immediately,” he said.

    Earlier, the Director, Development Control, Mr Mukhtar Galadima, had explained that the area was unplanned and houses an indigenous community.

    Galadima said that the two-storey building was multipurpose and was for both residential and commercial use.

    The permanent secretary commended security agencies and some contractors who came out in their numbers to render support in evacuating the rubbles and search for more victims.

    Also, the Director-General, FCT FEMA, Dr Idriss Abass, said that relevant agencies had been on ground since the occurrence of the incident, to rescue the victims.

    Abass said that efforts were still ongoing “to ensure that no one is left under the rubbles”.

    Meanwhile, some of the victims, who spoke with NAN said that they lost their investments and properties to the incident, and called for government support.

    One of them, Ms Glory Perekeme, who operates a restaurant and a bar at the building, said she lost about N5 million as she could not take anything from her restaurant.

    “I closed for business around 10:00 p.m. and was on my way home when I received a call that the building had collapsed and my investment gone.

    “I am still in shock; and I don’t even know where to start from.

    “I really need assistance. Government should come to our aid so we can start all over again,” she said.

    Another victim, Mrs Ann Anyi, who owned a laundry and sells shoes, said that she lost everything to the incident.

    “I have been crying since I got the news of the incident in the midnight.

    “I am just hoping that when the rescue operation is over, I will be able to salvage something from the rubbles,” she said.

  • I didn’t purchase N300m bullet proof SUV – Wike

    I didn’t purchase N300m bullet proof SUV – Wike

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike has refuted claims of purchasing a N300 million Armoured Lexus LX600 SUV on assumption to office.

    Wike made the rebuttal shortly after a visit to Metro Train Station, Abuja on Wednesday to inspect ongoing rehabilitation of Abuja Rail Mass Transport System.

    Some sections of the media had published a picture of an Armored Lexus SUV model LX 600, fitted with ‘FCT – 01’ plate.

    The reports claimed that the SUV, which cost more than N300 million, belonged to the new FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.

    But Wike refuted the claim, describing it as mere “mischief”, stressing that he was sworn in on Monday and had not even sat down to work yet.

    He said that all he did was interact with staff and today (Wednesday), went to the Metro Train Station, Abuja with the Minister of State for FCT to see things for themselves.

    “We are now going back to the office to interact with each of the departments in the Federal Capital Territory Administration.

    “But I have seen what is going on in the social media, how the FCTA Permanent Secretary bought a bullet proof car of N300 million that I am using.

    “So, I want you people to go hit your hand there (on the car) and see whether it is a treated car.

    “With all due respect, people should be careful not to destroy other people,” he said.

    He explained that when he resumed, the Permanent Secretary, Mr Adesola Olusade had told him that the FCTA has cars that the ministers would use.

    “And the car we use is this (pointing at a regular Lexus SUV).

    “I have never approved for any car to be bought and I have not used any official bullet proof car.

    “I am not using a bullet proof car as FCT Minister, so we should report the right thing, and not destroy ourselves.

    “I want you to take a look at the car I came with, the one with the flag and see whether it is a bullet proof car”, he asked the journalists at the scene.

    In a related development, the Director Press, Office of the Minister, Mr Anthony Ogunleye, dismissed claims by some media outfits that Wike plans to demolish 6,000 houses across 30 settlements in Abuja, including Wadata Plaza.

    “We would like to categorically state that these stories are entirely false and without any basis,” Ogunleye said.

    He explained that the story on the demolition of 6,000 houses was reported by a national daily newspaper on Aug. 22, with the caption “Abuja land: FG may revoke land allocations, demolish 6000 buildings, slums”.

    He added that another mainstream newspaper also published what he described as an “irritating story”, with a caption, “Wadata Plaza will go down, Reactions trail Wike’s demolition threat”.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, the Minister did not in any of his pronouncements list the areas or the number of illegal houses to be removed.

    “Rather, his emphasis has always been that illegal settlements and structures would be removed for the greater good of the public.

    “Equally vexing” is the headline from a reputable broadcast station saying, “I will fix Abuja in 6 days” and attributed the same to the FCT Minister.

    “We wish to state quite clearly that at no time did the Honourable Minister say this or allude to this phrase in any way. This headline, therefore, is borne purely out of mischief,” he said.

    The director press pointed out that such sensational reporting not only misleads the public but also undermines the vital role that accurate and well-researched journalism plays in society.

  • FCT Ministry debunks stories on demolition of 6000 houses, SUV

    FCT Ministry debunks stories on demolition of 6000 houses, SUV

    The Ministry of Federal Capital Territory, FCT has debunked reports suggesting there are plans to demolish 6000 houses in the territory.

    This was contained in a release issued and signed by the Director Press, Anthony Ogunleye on Wednesday stating that:

    “We are compelled to address recent news articles in the media, that claimed that the new FCT Minister, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, is embarking on a demolition spree targeting 6000 houses across 30 settlements in Abuja as well as the Wadata Plaza.

    “We would like to categorically state that these stories are entirely false and without any basis in reality.

    “The story on demolition of 6000 houses was reported by a national daily newspaper on the 22nd of August 2023 with the caption “Abuja land: FG may revoke land allocations, demolish 6000 buildings, slums” while another mainstream newspaper also published this highly irritating story: “Wadata Plaza will go down, Reactions trail Wike’s demolition threat”.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, the Minister did not in any of his pronouncements list the areas or the number of illegal houses to be removed, rather his emphasis has always been that illegal settlements and structures would be removed for the greater good of the public.

    “Equally vexing is the headline from a reputable broadcast station saying, “I will fix Abuja in 6 days” and attributed same to the FCT Minister. We wish to state quite clearly that at no time did the Honourable Minister say this or allude to this phrase in any way.

    “This headline therefore, is borne purely out of mischief.

    “The Honourable Minister has consistently demonstrated a commitment to responsible urban development and the welfare of the people even while he was the governor of Rivers State, a commitment he has assured residents within the FCT since he assumed office as Minister. The claim that he is orchestrating large-scale demolitions is not only inaccurate but also lacks credibility.

    “Such sensationalist reporting not only misleads the public but also undermines the vital role that accurate and well-researched journalism plays in our society.

    ” It is important to remember that the development and maintenance of the FCT is guided by carefully crafted policies and regulations, with a focus on sustainable urban growth and the preservation of residents’ rights. Any decisions made in this regard are rooted in comprehensive assessments, community consultations, and adherence to the rule of law.

    “On the other hand, the story on the 300M bulletproof car was credited to an online auto blog with the caption: “This ₦300M Armored Lexus LX 600 fitted with ‘FCT – 01’ reportedly belong to FCT Minister, Wike”.

    ” In a swift reaction, the Minister, who spoke today, 23rd August, 2023 during his first project tour at the Abuja Metro station stressed that the vehicle was not bulletproof as claimed but a regular SUV.

     

    “We encourage journalists, bloggers and media outlets to exercise responsible journalism by verifying information from authorised sources before disseminating it to the public. Fabricated stories, such as the ones in question, only serve to damage the reputation of respected public figures and create unnecessary anxiety amongst the citizenry.

    “We want to emphasize that the Honourable Minister remains steadfast in his dedication to improving the quality of life for all residents of the FCT. Any claims to the contrary are purely the result of misinformation and should be treated as such.

     

    ANTHONY OGUNLEYE

    DIRECTOR OF PRESS

    OFFICE OF THE HONOURABLE MINISTER

    23/08/2023

  • FCT minister, Wike on first official assignment, inspects rail project

    FCT minister, Wike on first official assignment, inspects rail project

    Mr Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Wednesday, inspected the Abuja Rail Mass Transit (ARMT) System rehabilitation project as first official assignment.

    Wike told journalists during a visit to the ARMT Metro Station, in Abuja, that the measure was part of his resolve to address challenges affecting public transportation in the FCT.

    According to him, transportation is one of the sectors he intends to transform in the short time to improve public transportation in the capital city.

    “Transportation is one of the sectors we intend to intervene in the short term to reduce traffic congestion within the city.

    “I know that we have a metro station in Abuja, and it is not working, why is it not working? Can we fix it within a short time? He asked.

    He noted that while there were other lots of the project that were not completed, people would have confidence on the one that was completed and working.

    He stressed that it was not a good idea to begin another rail project while the one that was finished remain unusable.

    He said that every project that commenced must be finished before embarking on another one, considering the availability of resources.

    “I assured the public that the rail transport system is a project we will take to a logical conclusion.

    “Before commencing another project, we will need to determine which areas are the most traffic areas. This is very important to decongest areas with traffic congestion,” he said.

    He told the management of CCECC Nig. Ltd, the construction company handling the rail construction and rehabilitation projects to deliver quality projects.

    After a train ride from the Metro Station to Airport and Idu Stations to inspect the ongoing rehabilitation project of the rail system, the minister described it as a “good project.”

    He added that if completed, it would significantly reduce traffic congestion in the city.

    “This is one of the projects we will complete and put to use.

    “The money for the rehabilitation is on ground and I have already directed the Permanent Secretary, FCT Administration, Mr Adesola Olusade to make sure that the contractor is paid.

    “We will work to ensure that in the next coming months, this project is commissioned and put to public use,” Wike said.

    Earlier, the Minister of State for FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, said that assessing the problems affecting the rail transport and finding ways to address them would help in putting the system to public use.

    According to her, the transport system is one of the palliative measures that President Bola Tinubu wants to provide to the public.

    “We are in the ARMT Metro Station to look at what is on ground, what the challenges are and what is expected of the ministry to move transportation system to the next level.”

    The permanent secretary had earlier noted that Wike was known to many as a ‘Mr project’, adding that it was not surprising that his first assignment outside the office was a visit to a project site.

    Olusade explained that the ARMT system was challenged by massive vandalisation of rail infrastructure during COVID-19 lockdown, adding that private security companies have been engaged to salvage the situation.

    He added that a major hurdle in the operation process has been addressed, adding that the Abuja Urban Mass Transport Company has been assigned to manage the operation.

    “We are already developing a framework for the assignment, and we look forward to this project contributing significantly to the reduction of the pains of the removal of fuel subsidy,” he said.

    Also, the Director of Transportation, FCTA, Mr Joseph Akinteye, explained that the ARMT system rehabilitation project consists of Lots 1 A and 3 spans 45.245 kilometres (km).

    Akinteye explained that the ARMT system phase 1, which comprises Lots 1 and 3, made up of 77.775 km, out of six Lots designated by the Transportation Master plan was awarded in 2007.

    Akinteye, however, said that only Lots 1 A and 3, made up of 45.245 km, were completed in 2017 and commissioned in 2018.

  • Atiku’s political ally, Fintri hails Wike on ministerial appointment

    Atiku’s political ally, Fintri hails Wike on ministerial appointment

    Nyesom Wike has been congratulated by Atiku Abubakar’s political ally, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, the governor of Adamawa State, on his appointment as minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

    Fintiri commended Wike and expressed optimism that his background as the former governor of Rivers State would aid in the development and advancement of the FCT while speaking via his verified X account (formerly Twitter) on Monday.

    Fintiri also commended Wike’s leadership in Rivers State, emphasizing that his notable achievements played a key role in securing the ministerial position.

     

    He said, “Your Excellency, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike you have set precedence and demonstrated exemplary leadership traits by delivering service and good governance according to the people’s need during your tenure as Governor of Rivers State which I believe earned you this position.

    “I trust that you will continue to work for improved growth and development of the FCT just like you did in Rivers State as Governor.”

    “I am confident that your influence will continue to encourage our proud tradition of hard work and dedication to the country as well as involvement in worthwhile political causes.”

    Governor Fintiri added that Wike’s appointment was deserved: “My brother and friend once more congratulations on your appointment. I know you have worked hard to reach this point, and I’m so happy that you have been recognized for your accomplishment with this new assignment. It is well-deserved,” he said.

    Recall that Fintiri led former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar’s failed peace talk with Wike in London ahead of the 2023 Presidential Election.

    Wike on the other hand led a group of five southern governors known as the ‘G-5’ that worked against Atiku’s presidential bid.

  • BREAKING: Wike resumes office as FCT minister, vows to restore Abuja masterplan

    BREAKING: Wike resumes office as FCT minister, vows to restore Abuja masterplan

    Newly sworn-in minister of the Federal Capital Territory FCT, Nyesom Wike, has made a pledge to restore the master plan of the nation’s capital.

    Wike who stated this at his maiden news conference held on Monday in Abuja, said land allottees who have been given Certificates of Occupancy but failed to develop would also lose their lands to give way to those ready to build.

    “If you know you have built where you are not supposed to build, it will go down”.

    Details later…