It seems that the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) could be allocated a budget of N1 trillion in the 2024 financial year. The Chairman of the House Committee on the FCT, Mr. Muktar Betara Aliyu, hinted at this possibility during the committee’s inauguration at the National Assembly complex in Abuja.
Aliyu emphasized the need for a substantial budget to provide an enabling environment for FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to implement his development agenda effectively. He argued that a meager budget allocation of N90 billion would limit the progress of the FCT.
“We are planning that in 2024, he should take off with a budget of N1 trillion and above. If we have our way, we will increase the budget because we have a dedicated Minister who is eager to work,” Aliyu stated.
He appealed to the committee to support Nyesom Wike to boost revenue generation in the FCT, with the goal of leaving a lasting legacy for the 10th National Assembly.
Aliyu acknowledged the Minister’s initiatives in driving revenue through measures like ground rent payments, revocation of undeveloped plots, and demolition of illegal structures, and considered them steps in the right direction for the FCT’s development.
However, another committee member, Mrs. Regina Akume, urged the FCT Minister to approach the demolition of illegal structures with caution, considering the hardships Nigerians are facing due to the fuel subsidy removal. She recounted the story of a widow with four children who suffered significantly after her house was demolished by FCT authorities.
Mark Obeta, another committee member, urged the FCT Minister to focus on opening up satellite towns as a means of decongesting the Abuja city center.
Minister Nyesom Wike, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the FCT, Mr. Adesola Olusade, expressed appreciation for the support from lawmakers and called for the swift passage of various bills related to health and infrastructure development.
Wike explained that the construction of a 5-kilometer road in the area councils aims to decongest the city center and enhance living conditions for residents.
