The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has announced that FCT Administration has successfully implemented 95 percent of its 2024 statutory budget.
Wike made this disclosure after inspecting several ongoing infrastructure projects across the Territory, including major road constructions in Life Camp and Katampe, as well as the extensive renovation of the International Conference Centre, Abuja.
In a statement signed by the Director of Press (Office of the Hon. Minister), Anthony Ogunleye, the Minister described the milestone as unprecedented, stating:
“I can tell you we’ve achieved not less than 95 percent budget implementation. That is historic. It has never happened before.
If you examine the projects, you’ll see that there’s no item in the 2024 budget that we have not touched.”
Wike attributed the achievement in part to the National Assembly’s extension of the 2024 statutory budget’s lifespan until June 2025. He noted that this extension has allowed the Administration to sustain funding for ongoing projects without interruption.
Looking ahead, the Minister revealed that the FCT’s 2025 statutory budget has already been submitted to the National Assembly. He expressed optimism about its early passage to maintain momentum on critical infrastructure initiatives.
During the inspection tour, Wike commended contractors for their commitment to quality and timely project delivery, noting satisfaction with both the pace and standard of work.
Among the key projects inspected was the 4-kilometer six-lane dual carriageway connecting Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III, being constructed by Julius Berger Nigeria Plc. Once completed, the road is expected to significantly boost connectivity across several districts, including Kado, Karmo, Gwarimpa I, Dape, Ido-Gwari, Saburi, and Dei-Dei.
Also nearing completion is the access road linking the Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway (by N16) to Judges Quarters in Katampe District, which will further connect to N20 (Wole Soyinka Way) in Jahi District, enhancing access to Katampe and Maitama.
Wike expressed particular delight at the ongoing transformation of the International Conference Centre, describing the renovation as rapid and on schedule.
He announced that these major projects are slated for commissioning in May 2025, to mark President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second anniversary in office.
“These projects will be inaugurated by Mr. President during his second-year anniversary celebrations.
The International Conference Centre is almost ready. The first phase of the N5 road will also be completed by the end of May.
Frankly speaking, we are very impressed with what we have seen. We are on schedule, and the contractors are meeting expectations. We are also fulfilling our own part by ensuring prompt payments to avoid delays,” he said.
Wike reaffirmed his confidence in the standard of work being delivered and expressed optimism that the revitalized International Conference Centre will soon resume its role as a premier venue for national and international events.
