By Abdullahi Lukman
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has approved contracts worth over N8.4 billion for waste management services, security equipment and relief support for flood victims in Abuja.
The approvals were granted at the 18th Executive Committee (EXCO) meeting chaired by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, on Monday.
Briefing journalists after the meeting, Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC) Coordinator Felix Obuah said EXCO ratified two major memos, including a N7.3 billion contract for waste collection and management services across four districts of the Federal Capital City.
The contract also covers the supply of diesel to the Wupa Basic Waste Treatment Plant for two years to strengthen sanitation infrastructure.
Obuah added that the committee also approved the procurement of food and non-food items to support residents affected by flooding in parts of the territory.
In a separate approval, EXCO ratified N1.13 billion for the emergency procurement of communication gadgets and other equipment for the FCT Security Agency.
Director of FCT Procurement, Musa Idris Onsachi, said the equipment would bridge gaps identified by the minister upon assumption of office and enhance security operations across the capital.
Meanwhile, the FCTA’s Director of Land Administration, Chijoke Nwankwoeze, said the processing time for Certificates of Occupancy (C-of-O) has been significantly reduced.
He assured residents that applicants who meet all requirements can now receive their certificates within as little as one week.
Nwankwoeze explained that delays often result from failure to submit passport photographs, return letters of acceptance for statutory rights of occupancy, or complete payment despite generating Remita invoices.
He clarified that generating an invoice does not constitute payment.
He also warned property owners who have illegally converted residential buildings to commercial use that enforcement actions, including title revocation, may soon begin.
While noting partial compliance, he urged defaulters to regularise their status and pay outstanding ground rents.
According to him, revenue from land charges is critical to funding infrastructure and maintaining the nation’s capital.
