ABUJA — A Civil Society Organisation, the Community Advancement and Humanitarian Empowerment Initiative (CSCHEI), has called on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to ensure all ongoing and future projects in the FCT are guided by comprehensive environmental impact assessments (EIAs).
In a statement issued on Monday, CSCHEI’s Director-General, Hon. Kunle Yusuff, emphasized the need for the Minister to incorporate sustainability measures in project execution to safeguard the environment and align with global climate and development goals.
The organization specifically urged the Minister to champion sustainable development projects that would transform the FCT into a model green city. It also encouraged the integration of climate-resilient infrastructure, low-carbon initiatives, and projects that directly support Nigeria’s progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
While commending Wike’s ongoing road construction and rehabilitation efforts across the FCT, CSCHEI noted that improved infrastructure has significantly enhanced economic growth, healthcare access, education, and the overall quality of life for residents.
“The Minister’s infrastructure drive aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in expanding development across FCT’s Area Councils,” the statement read.
The group, however, stressed that long-term development must go beyond roads and buildings. “To position the FCT as a global sustainable green city, we urge the Minister to embed environmental sustainability, climate change mitigation, and social development into all future projects,” it stated.
CSCHEI highlighted several reasons why social and community development should be a priority in the FCT, including poverty alleviation, improved healthcare and education, economic empowerment, social inclusion, and environmental conservation.
“Incorporating sustainable practices helps preserve natural resources and reduce environmental degradation,” the group noted. It added that such development also fosters social cohesion, promotes peace, and ensures that government interventions are responsive to local needs.
The organization advocated for a data-driven approach to policy implementation and community initiatives, saying that the use of scientific principles and analytics would improve the effectiveness and efficiency of government projects.
CSCHEI concluded by expressing its willingness to partner with the FCT Ministry to support meaningful development, saying collaboration with civil society organizations is crucial to advancing sustainable growth and environmental responsibility in the territory.
