The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, announced on Thursday that the Ministry of Finance has disbursed N50billion to the FCT for ongoing capital projects.
The release constitutes 50% of the FCT’s N100billion 2023 supplementary budget approved by the National Assembly.
Following an inspection tour of various projects in the FCT, Wike expressed satisfaction with the quality of work and directed the Permanent Secretary to promptly disburse payments to the respective contractors.
“I am happy to announce to you that the Ministry of Finance has released 50% of the national supplementary budget. That, in a way, has given us hope that the contractors will be paid anytime from now,” stated Wike.
He further disclosed that the FCT Statutory Budget had received assent, ensuring that no project would be left incomplete. Wike affirmed his commitment to fulfilling promises and reassured the residents that the renewed hope agenda was more than mere rhetoric.
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Acknowledging challenges encountered during project delivery, Wike remained optimistic, stating, “With the kind of support from President Bola Tinubu, there are no challenges that would not be surmountable.”
Projects inspected included the Outer Southern Expressway, Northern N-20 Expressway, and the Vice President’s residence. Contractors, such as China Geo-Engineering Corporation (CGC) Nigeria Limited and Gilmor Construction firm, assured the minister of meeting project timelines.
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The Area Manager of CGC Nigeria Ltd., Yong Hong, pledged the timely delivery of the Outer Southern Expressway before May, while Julius Berger’s representative, Mr Oliver Berger, highlighted progress on the Vice President’s residence project, affirming readiness to transition plans and procurement into action.
The minister concluded, “We are happy with what we have seen, and we will continue to do things to the satisfaction of the residents of Abuja and assure them that the renewed hope agenda is not a mere talk. So, it is a promise and a promise kept.”
Source: Saharareporters
