House Committee urges Minister Wike to prioritize security and revenue generation in FCT

The House of Representatives Committee on the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has called on Minister Nyesom Wike to give top priority to the security of lives and property in the nation’s capital. The committee also encouraged Wike to leverage his energy, experience, and network to enhance revenue generation, supporting the infrastructural development of the FCT.

Muktar Betara, Chairman of the House Committee on FCT, made these recommendations during the inaugural meeting of the panel in Abuja. He emphasized the committee’s commitment to realizing President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and highlighted its oversight responsibilities, which include various FCT agencies.

Betara stated, “Abuja is losing revenue, but this Committee will support the Minister to ensure that he gets more revenue for the development of infrastructure in the FCT.” He urged quick payment of ground rent for undeveloped landed property and mentioned the Minister’s commitment to addressing issues such as title documents for estates in Abuja.

Addressing concerns about the demolition of illegal structures, committee member Regina Akume requested a slowdown in these actions, considering the challenges faced by the less privileged in the current economic climate. In response, Permanent Secretary Adesola Olusade thanked the Committee for its commitment and urged members to work on pending bills related to the development and decongestion of the capital city. Olusade acknowledged the concerns about shanties but stressed the dangers they pose, citing criminal activities and drug-related issues in these areas.