By Francesca Hangeior.
The Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, has signed two Memoranda of Understanding with the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation and the China Geo-Engineering Corporation Overseas Construction Group to enhance the lighting of the Federal Capital Territory and boost improved rural water supply.
The announcement was made in a statement issued to newsmen in Abuja on Sunday by the Director of Press in the Office of the FCT Minister, Anthony Ogunleye.
The MoUs were signed in Beijing, China, during Wike’s visit with President Bola Tinubu for the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit.
The statement added that the projects outlined in the MoUs are set to be completed in time for the 50th anniversary of the creation of the FCT.
Wike, Chinese firms sign power, water supply MoU for Abuja
The Minister emphasised that these initiatives align with President Tinubu’s agenda to bring positive changes to the FCT.
Wike stated, “One key project that is very dear to us is the lighting up of Abuja. As Abuja will celebrate its 50th anniversary next year, we envision it to be a jubilee year.
We want Abuja to shine like other global cities, similar to the lighting we have seen in Beijing.”
The statement further added that under the agreements, CCECC will handle the lighting of key areas including Maitama, Asokoro, Wuse, the Central Business Area, Airport Road, and Bill Clinton Drive.
Meanwhile, CGCOC will manage the lighting projects in Mabushi, Katampe, and Garki districts.
In addition to the lighting project, Wike addressed the provision of water while also highlighting the progress on the Greater Abuja Water Works project, managed by CGCOC, which is nearing 75 per cent completion.
The Minister expressed optimism that the project would be completed by December.
Wike also announced plans to extend water supply to rural areas, including Gwagwalada, Kwali, and Kuje, through a new MoU with CGCOC.
He underscored the President’s directive to not only focus on the city but also to address the needs of rural communities.
Both Mr. Chen Sichang, President of CCECC, and Mr. Lan Meizhong, Chairman of CGCOC, expressed their gratitude for the trust placed in them and assured the Minister of their commitment to delivering the projects with high quality and within the stipulated timelines.
The signing of these MoUs is a significant outcome of the recent FOCAC Summit held in Beijing.