The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has expressed concern over rising cases of vandalism targeting public infrastructure in Abuja, pledging new security measures to safeguard road projects, street lighting, and upcoming bus terminals.
Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, disclosed this during an inspection of ongoing projects on Thursday, highlighting incidents where street light poles had been uprooted by vandals. He warned that criminal interference poses a serious threat to public investments.
Wike reassured residents that contracts with companies such as CCECC and CGC now incorporate advanced security features, including real-time monitoring systems, to make vandalism more difficult. “Most of the jobs we have done are being vandalised by criminals. That is why we are focused on security features so that by the time these projects are completed, you will no longer see such incidents,” he said.
The Minister inspected several major road projects, including the Wuse link to the Central Business Area by Levant Construction Company, the Mabushi terminal road by Setraco, and the Wuye-Arterial N1 project by Arab Contractors. He expressed confidence that the Wuse link will be ready by June, with other major roads completed by year’s end.
On funding, Wike clarified that the projects are largely financed through Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) rather than the federation account, which he said is insufficient even for routine expenditures like salaries. He credited the progress to the competence of contracted companies and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to delivering infrastructure that improves residents’ lives.
Nevertheless, he stressed that safeguarding infrastructure is as important as building it, underscoring ongoing efforts to protect investments, enhance safety, and ensure the smooth operation of Abuja’s transport network.
By Eunice Orike, Abuja
