ABUJA –
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has announced
that a total of N1.1 billion has been earmarked as compensation for property
owners affected by the construction along Airport – Kuje road.
This amount covers buildings and land, as part of the
administration’s effort to ensure smooth progress on the project.
He disclosed this during a site visit to assess the
ongoing road construction at the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal on
Tuesday in Abuja.
His words: “The entire estimate they gave is about
N1.1 billion to pay for those whose properties are affected, including some of
the buildings down to the community. We will make the funds available
immediately to ensure the contractor has no excuse for delay,” the Minister
stated during a recent inspection of the project site.
Expressing satisfaction with the progress of the
project, Wike assured stakeholders that the Court of Appeal complex would be
completed and delivered by September 2025. He lauded the contractors for
adhering to the construction timeline and maintaining high standards.
“First of all, I am very impressed with what we saw
this afternoon. It is progressing as expected. By the grace of God, we believe
that by September next year, the contractor will hand over the structure. You
can also see the construction of the road leading to the area, which is
progressing well,” he said.
To avoid delays, Wike emphasized the importance of
firsthand assessment before approving compensation for affected property
owners. “When I got the files for approval, I said it would be proper for me to
see for myself the kind of structures that we are going to pay for. I am happy
with what I have seen, and I will immediately approve the payment so that the
work will not be delayed,” he added.
In line with the federal government’s Renewed Hope
Agenda, the Minister also highlighted the recent approval of a minimum wage
increase. He affirmed that arrears agreed upon with labour unions would be paid
promptly, further demonstrating the administration’s commitment to workers’
welfare.
“It is the commitment of the federal government under
the Renewed Hope Agenda that workers’ wages should be increased. In line with
that, we have adopted it and approved payment of the arrears as agreed with
labor,” Wike announced.
He encouraged workers to view the wage increment as an
incentive to enhance productivity and contribute to the development of the FCT.
“Workers should understand that this is a boost for them, and it also means
more work is expected from everyone to achieve the development required in the
city,” he added.
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