Expressing deep concern over the escalating levels of waste and disorderly transportation systems within the nation’s capital, Abuja, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued stern directives to high-ranking officials of the administration to address these issues urgently or consider reassignment.
The Minister took direct aim at the director overseeing the Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB), instructing them to embark on a comprehensive city-wide cleanup effort. Wike asserted his commitment by emphasizing his determination to monitor progress closely, even to the extent of potentially raising the director’s blood pressure.
Turning his attention to the city’s transportation sector, Wike used colloquial language to convey the gravity of the situation, stating that “trouble has arrived.” In a meeting with top secretariat officials, he underscored the need for swift and effective action.
Wike delivered these directives during a recent reception of transition notes from the Permanent Secretary of the FCTA, Mr. Olusade Adesola. He articulated his resolve to deliver substantial improvements to Abuja, ensuring that projects would be not only initiated but also completed – a stark departure from the issue of abandoned projects that has plagued the region.
“I am staunchly against the abandonment of projects. We shall commence projects based on available finances, guaranteeing their completion,” Wike asserted, echoing his belief in the renewed promise of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He added that these efforts would yield visible results for Nigerians.
Wike stressed the importance of immediate results to instill faith in the government’s commitment to transforming the territory. Addressing concerns raised by both citizens and himself, he expressed determination to rectify malfunctioning street lights swiftly, underscoring his dedication to reinstating the city’s aesthetic appeal.
Regarding sanitation, the former Rivers State governor issued an unequivocal directive to the sanitation director, vowing to apply unrelenting pressure until cleanliness standards are met. “Prepare to work assiduously. I am prepared to induce stress in you to ensure you work diligently,” he declared. He went on to emphasize that maintaining a clean environment was non-negotiable and called on the director to be perpetually prepared for the challenge.
Transitioning to the transportation realm, Wike drew attention to the proliferation of unauthorized bus stops, deeming it a troubling situation. He made it clear that incapacity would not be tolerated, stressing readiness to replace ineffective officials. Despite acknowledging the inherent difficulties, Wike highlighted the necessity of upholding law and order, reiterating that tough circumstances should not lead to a lawless society.
Minister of State in the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, echoed Wike’s sentiment and expressed her belief in replicating his successes in Rivers State within the FCT. She called for unwavering commitment from staff members, emphasizing the departure from business as usual and the alignment with President Tinubu’s vision.
The Permanent Secretary, while assuring the ministers of the staff’s unwavering support, commended their willingness to undertake the challenge of repositioning the FCT. Similarly, the Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Shehu Hadi, expressed gratitude to Wike and Mahmoud for their acceptance of the roles and their dedication to revitalizing the territory.
As Abuja eagerly anticipates the implementation of these directives, the nation watches closely, hopeful for a cleaner, more organized, and transformed capital city.
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