The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Mr. Nyesom Wike, has formalized a significant agreement with two leading Chinese engineering and construction companies aimed at significantly improving electricity and water services within Abuja.
The agreement, known as a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), was officially signed on Saturday in Beijing, China, marking a major step towards advancing infrastructure in the capital city.
The MoU was concluded between the FCT and two prominent Chinese firms; the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) and the China Geo-Engineering Corporation Overseas Construction (CGCOC) Group. This partnership comes as part of the broader efforts to modernize and enhance essential services in Abuja.
The signing ceremony took place during President Bola Tinubu’s official visit to China, where he participated in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in Beijing. This high-profile event provided a platform for discussing and securing various developmental projects between African nations and China.
Wike highlighted that the projects included in this MoU were prominently discussed by President Tinubu during the summit. These initiatives are in line with Tinubu’s vision to restore and enhance public confidence in the government by focusing on impactful, people-centered projects. The goal is to visibly improve the living standards of Abuja residents and address long-standing infrastructure challenges.
Under the terms of the agreement, the projects are scheduled for completion by 2025, aligning with the FCT’s 50th anniversary celebrations. One of the most anticipated outcomes is the extensive upgrade to the city’s lighting infrastructure.
Wike emphasized that a major objective is to make Abuja as well-lit and vibrant as other major cities like Beijing. The CCECC will be responsible for upgrading the lighting in key areas such as Maitama, Asokoro, Wuse, the Central Business District, and Airport Road. Meanwhile, the CGCOC Group will focus on improving infrastructure in Mabushi, Katampe, and Garki.
In addition to the lighting upgrades, the agreement also addresses water supply improvements in satellite towns around the FCT. This includes enhancing water services in Gwagwalada, Kwali, and Kuje, as directed by President Tinubu. The CGCOC Group will oversee these water supply projects, ensuring that residents in these areas receive consistent and reliable water services.
Wike also provided an update on the Greater Abuja Water Works project, which is being managed by CGCOC Group. He reported that this project is currently 75% complete and is on track for full completion by December 2024. This project is crucial for expanding and improving water distribution across the FCT.
The Minister expressed his gratitude to President Tinubu for securing the necessary approvals for these projects and urged the CGCOC Group to expedite their efforts. Timely completion of these projects is essential for providing better services to Abuja’s satellite towns and improving the overall quality of life for residents.
During the ceremony, Mr. Chen Sichang, President of CCECC, and Mr. Lan Meizhong, Chairman of CGCOC Group, both expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to work on these significant projects. They reassured the Minister of their commitment to delivering high-quality results within the agreed timelines. Their dedication to these projects reflects a strong partnership aimed at enhancing Abuja’s infrastructure and services.
