The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Executive Committee gave the green light to a series of contracts designed to enhance transportation and infrastructure across Abuja, the meeting Chaired by FCT Minister Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, during the 9th FCT Executive Committee meeting.
The committee approved several significant projects, including the construction of dedicated bus lanes for the Kugbo and Mabushi bus terminals, access roads, and the development of essential facilities for key institutions.
A statement released on friday, November 1, 2024, signed by Anthony Ogunleye Director Press, Office of the Minister, said the committee’s approval covers dedicated bus lanes specifically for the Kugbo and Mabushi bus/taxi terminals, which are both currently under construction. According to Dr. Chinedum Elechi, Secretary of the Transportation Secretariat, discussions revealed the necessity of creating exclusive lanes to improve access to these terminals and ease traffic congestion on the main roads nearby.
“The terminal projects at Kugbo and Mabushi are progressing well, but access lanes were needed to ensure efficient use,” Dr. Elechi explained. “This contract introduces two dedicated access lanes for each terminal to streamline transport and enhance utility once the terminals are completed.”
The project is slated to be completed within 12 weeks, with a contract cost of N7.22 billion.
In addition to the bus lanes, the committee approved a new access road to the EFCC Training Academy located in Giri District, an area linked to the University of Abuja via the Bill Clinton flyover. This road project, valued at approximately N7.83 billion, is intended to improve connectivity to the academy and is expected to be completed within nine months.
A significant portion of the approvals involves the rehabilitation and reconstruction of Bill Clinton Drive, which connects to the presidential wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport. This reconstruction, awarded to Julius Berger for approximately N9.87 billion, will restore the road and enhance critical facilities within the airport, including the presidential hangar, taxiway, and apron.
“This project will upgrade Bill Clinton Drive, improving the infrastructure leading to the presidential wing,” noted Engr. Shehu Hadi Ahmed, Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA). “Facilities used for presidential and VIP arrivals will also be upgraded as part of this contract,” Ahmed added.
To support staff at the Nigerian Law School in Bwari, the committee approved the design and construction of ten staff quarters, a project valued at approximately N2.19 billion. This development is expected to be completed in nine months and reflects the FCT Administration’s ongoing commitment to investing in the education sector.
The committee also addressed operational needs at the Wupa Basin Sewage Treatment Plant by approving a contract for the supply of automotive gas oil (diesel) and premium motor spirit (petrol) covering 2023 and 2024.
Additionally, Barrister G.G. Bawa, Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary of the Legal Secretariat, highlighted the approval for furnishing and equipping the new office space for the Legal Services Secretariat. The contract also includes the procurement of utility vehicles to facilitate operations.
These projects underscore the FCT Administration’s dedication to enhancing infrastructure and public services in Abuja, advancing initiatives that address the needs of both residents and institutions across the FCT.
