House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas has hailed Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike for the developmental projects he has established across the nation’s capital.
He expressed joy about the minister’s performance, saying he had made President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration proud.
Abbas spoke at the official flag–off ceremony of the construction of access road from Rind Road 1 by N16 Judges’ Quarters in Katampe District of Abuja.
The Speaker, who was represented by Deputy Benjamin Kalu, said: “It is common knowledge that Nigeria, like many other developing nations, has an infrastructure deficit.
“According to recent estimates, Nigeria needs to invest about $3 trillion over the next 30 years to close the infrastructure gap and achieve the level of development required for sustained economic growth. The road network, power supply, housing, healthcare, and education sectors are some of the areas in urgent need of attention.
“Here in Abuja, the infrastructure deficit is more glaring as the city’s population continues to grow at an annual rate of 5%. This puts pressure on existing facilities and highlights the need for more access roads, housing, and essential services to cater to the needs of residents.
“Under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, there have been commendable initiatives aimed at addressing this infrastructure deficit.
“I would like to take this moment to specially commend the Honourable Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, for his transformative leadership since assuming office. The honourable minister has hit the ground running, initiating projects that address the critical needs of this growing city. From road construction to urban renewal programmes, his dedication to enhancing the infrastructure of the FCT is evident. We have witnessed several flag-offs, not just as ceremonial acts but as milestones in the commitment to make Abuja a world-class city. I commend Wike for his transformative leadership. You have made us proud.
“The ongoing rehabilitation of major roads, the clearing of illegal structures, and the focus on environmental sustainability are all testaments to the honourable minister’s vision of an Abuja that is not only beautiful but functional and efficient. I am confident that with the completion of this access road and other ongoing projects, residents and visitors alike will experience the positive impacts of these developments.
“As the legislature of the FCT, the National Assembly has an important role to play in supporting these development efforts. The 10th National Assembly, which I am privileged to lead, is fully committed to collaborating with the Executive to ensure that the FCT receives the necessary legislative backing to facilitate infrastructure development.
“We are ready to consider and pass laws that will further enhance the governance structure of the FCT and approve appropriations that will make meaningful infrastructure projects, such as this road construction, a reality…
“Under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, there have been commendable initiatives aimed at addressing this infrastructure deficit.”
Wike expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for giving him the opportunity to serve the nation.
The minister said the project would be inaugurated as part of President Tinubu’s second year in office.
He declared war on street beggars, saying: “In terms of security, let me say it clearly now. We have declared a war. Abuja is returning to beggars’ city. I mean, if you know you have a sister, you have a brother who is a beggar on the road, from next week, we will carry them. We will take them out (of the city).
“It is embarrassing that people who come in, the first thing they see are beggars on the road. Sometimes too, they may not be beggars. They may be criminals pretending to be beggars. We will not allow that.”