By Abdullahi Lukman
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has approved a N2.6 billion budget for waste management projects across Abuja, alongside major contracts for road construction, erosion control, and streetlight upgrades.
The approvals were made during the 14th executive committee meeting chaired by FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
Chief Felix Obuah, Coordinator of the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC), confirmed that the committee ratified contracts for waste management, including the operation and maintenance of Apo Erector and the Wupa Basic Sewage Treatment Plant.
The committee also approved an extension of service contracts for solid waste collection and management services covering 40 areas within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) for two months.
In total, these waste management projects are estimated to cost N2.6 billion, aimed at improving sanitation and waste handling throughout the city.
On the infrastructure front, Richard Dauda, acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), detailed approvals for several road construction projects, including 1.7 kilometers of access roads, drainage, and culverts in Durumi District near the Apostolic Church.
The committee sanctioned infrastructure development in Mabushi District, including the construction of Kez Udezue Street, which will feature underground drainage, street lighting, and water and sewage collectors.
Dauda also highlighted an emergency contract for erosion control along the water pipeline from Lower Usuma Dam to Gwagwalada, citing the threat posed by erosion to the major water supply.
The emergency repair will be carried out by CGC Nigeria Ltd., a Chinese company.
In addition to these, the committee approved contracts for the renovation and technical upgrades at the Department of State Security Headquarters and the construction of a magistrate court block in Jabi.
A significant infrastructure project also approved is the upgrade of streetlights on the 14-kilometer Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway (Ring Road I) from Maitama to Gudu.
This upgrade is necessary due to the outdated lighting system, which has been in place for over 15 years. The new hybrid lighting system will enhance road safety and nighttime motorability.
