Reps seek adequate funding of infrastructural projects in FCT

The House of Representatives on Tuesday called for timely release of budgetary allocations approved for provision of infrastructural projects across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as well as completion of key developmental projects.

The resolution was passed sequel to the motion on the ‘Need to support the various roads and infrastructural projects in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja’, sponsored by Hon. Chris Nkwonta.

While recognising the incumbent FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike for his determination to oversee the construction of various road infrastructures and successfully concluding previously neglected projects within a relatively brief timeframe; the House expressed grave concern over the inability of the immediate former FCT Minister, Muhammad Bello to successfully complete key road projects and other infrastructure across the nation’s capital city.

In his lead debate, Nkwota observed that FCT is the administrative headquarter of Nigeria, focusing on strategic, economic, and political objectives.

“The House also notes that various road initiatives underscore the commitment of the government to infrastructure development as a vital component in advancing the socio-economic wellbeing of residents, as well as creating employment and combating insecurity.

“The House is aware that the construction of quality roads would reduce the rate of accidents, ensure safety, promote efficient transport network and improve the economy of Abuja.

“The House is also aware that the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory is working on constructing 30 kilometers of road projects across the six Area Councils, including Paikon Kore-IIbwa road in Gwagwalada and Gaba-Tokula road in Bwari, a garage junction to the LEA Secretariat road in Kuye, the Yangoj-Sukuku Ebo road in Kwali, an access road that includes a two-span river bridge over the Naharati river, Ukya in Abayi; a temporary access road linking Saburi and two communities from the ONEX to the old Keffi road near Dei Dei, upon completion the projects, are expected to enhance socio-economic activities across the six Area Councils and promote development in the FCT.

“The House observes that the Phase II rehabilitation plan and resurfacing of 49 roads in Abuja, which encompass Asokoro and Its surroundings, is underway after commencing the Phase 1 project covering 135 roads in Garki against the background that the previous government granted it before it was abandoned due to financial constraints.

“The House also observes that the outer southern expressway, from A. A Rano to Deeper Life Junction, and the N-20 expressway in Jahi, all abandoned, are currently under construction.

“The House further observes that other ongoing projects include the rehabilitation of the Federal Secretariat Complex and the completion of roads B6, BI2, and circle roads in the Abuja Central Area, the full-scope development of arterial road N-20 from the Northern Parkway to the Outer Northern Expressway (ONEX) with spurs, the rehabilitation and expansion of the outer Southern Expressway from Villa Roundabout to the outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) ring road 1 junction with four interchanges, and the construction of Southern Parkway from Christian Center (58/9) to Ring Road 1.

“The House is cognizant of the plan by the Minister of FCT to provide basic infrastructure for the proposed residential arena for Judges and the effort by the Minister to complete specified abandoned projects such as the Vice President’s residence awarded in 2010 and the residences of the Presiding Officers of the National Assembly complex awarded in 2009.”

To this end, the House mandated its Committee on FCT to closely monitor the various infrastructural projects and ensure the removal of any obstacles to the completion of the various ongoing projects.