Speaking at the project site, Wike said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had fulfilled his promise to ensure Abuja residents have access to clean pipe-borne water.
“One thing you must give to Mr President is that when he makes his promises, he always fulfils them. Today, we are in Bwari. Tomorrow, we will be in Karu, taking two area councils together,” the minister stated.
He explained that although the contract was originally scheduled for completion in 18 months, discussions with the contractors, Messrs China Geo-engineering Construction Limited, led to an agreement to expedite the work. The goal, according to him, is to ensure that the project is ready for commissioning by the president’s third anniversary in office.
Wike further disclosed that 50 per cent of the contract sum had already been approved and released to the contractors. He stressed that development under his administration would not be limited to the city centre but would also extend to satellite towns and area councils.
“By the time we finish in Bwari and Karu, next year’s budget will capture Kuje and Kwali. And by 2027, by the grace of God, we will have extended to Gwagwalada and Abaji,” he added.
Highlighting the socioeconomic benefits of the project, the minister revealed that it would generate no fewer than 1,600 direct jobs, reduce overreliance on boreholes, and provide residents with a sustainable general water source.
Also speaking, the Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Richard Dauda, noted that the project would benefit not only Bwari township but also communities such as Ushafa, Jigu, Kuduru, Kuchuku, and other neighbouring settlements.
“This initiative will significantly improve the lives and well-being of the people,” Dauda affirmed.
