Abuja: The Minister of the Nigerian Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has cautioned Area Council Chairmen against the growing trend of illegal naming of streets constructed by the administration after themselves or others without government approval. The Minister gave the warning while flagging off key roads in Guzape District (AO9) and the Asokoro AIT Neighbourhood (AO4) in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
According to Voice of Nigeria, Wike stated that the government is investing heavily in road infrastructure in the nation’s capital and described such acts by the council chairmen or individuals as ‘funny, fraudulent, and unacceptable.’ He warned that those responsible for such unauthorised street naming should refund the money they collected from unsuspecting individuals.
The Minister emphasized that roads built with taxpayers’ money should not be arbitrarily named after individuals or their associates. Streets in the FCT will only be named after people who have genuinely contributed to the development of the area. He asserted that while roads may be named in satellite towns, the city centre must follow a regulated process.
Wike announced that the FCT Administration (FCTA) would introduce a strict policy framework to regulate street naming in Abuja, ensuring that the practice aligns with the capital’s master plan and honours those who have rendered meritorious service to the nation. He highlighted that these projects are part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aiming for equitable development and improved urban connectivity across the FCT.
The Minister commended the contractor, Dantata and Sawoe Construction Company, for their performance and urged them to deliver quality work on schedule. He also encouraged the employment of local youths and women during the construction process to support the community economically.
Moreover, Wike directed the Mandate Secretary for Education to document and publicly display all ongoing and completed school rehabilitation projects across the FCT as part of ‘Operation Show Your Report Card,’ emphasizing transparency and accountability in governmental projects.
Minister of State for the FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, highlighted that the new infrastructure in Guzape AO9 and the AIT Neighbourhood in Asokoro AO4 would enhance connectivity and promote development. She praised the National Assembly for its support and Wike for his leadership in driving infrastructural transformation in the capital.
The newly flagged-off roads are anticipated to ease traffic congestion, improve access, and enhance property value within the Guzape and Asokoro districts, reinforcing Abuja’s transformation under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.