The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has promised massive investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, transportation, security and youth development.
Wike, who stated this in his New Year message to residents of the FCT in Abuja on Wednesday, added that due attention would be given to agriculture and tourism development.
He said that the FCT Administration’s focus in 2025 would be on massive infrastructural development as a key driver of economic growth and development for improved quality of life.
He added that the administration would enhance healthcare, education, and agricultural services.
He says this will ensure every resident has access to essential services and nutritious food.
The minister also said that the FCTA would strive to tackle public transportation challenges through private-sector participation.
“We will also expand programmes for youth employment and positive engagement to harness the energy and creativity of our young people for the development of the FCT.
“We have also made necessary plans to exploit our tourism potential and build upon our achievements in the security sector,” he said.
Wike, however, pointed out that sustainable development requires the active participation of all residents.
He urged residents to meet their civic obligations by paying taxes, dues, and levies as applicable.
Wike said these were essential for generating revenue to fund developmental projects.
“Let us remain committed to ensuring that the FCT continues to stand as the centre of unity, upholding the dreams of our founding fathers.
“This administration remains steadfast in its determination to transform the FCT into one of the best capital territories in the world.
“We can achieve the collective dream of a thriving and prosperous FCT by supporting President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and working together in unity and cooperation.
“Together, let us embrace 2025 with hope and determination, and may this year bring us closer to realising our collective vision for an FCT that reflects the highest ideals of progress and unity,” he said.
The minister said 2024 was remarkable for the FCT as significant achievements were recorded, which set the foundation for sustained development.
He added that the FCT witnessed visible economic growth by fostering an enabling environment for foreign and local investments.
“This has been particularly impactful in rural areas, where infrastructural improvements have sparked economic activities and development,” he said.
He particularly said that the massive infrastructural development, including the construction of new urban and rural roads, had dramatically improved connectivity and accessibility for FCT residents.
He added that rural road development has also significantly enhanced economic activities in rural communities, creating opportunities and improving livelihoods.
Wike equally said that the FCTA prioritised education by rehabilitating several schools.
He said this ensured that children learn in conducive environments, empowering future generations with quality education.
The minister said that efforts were also made to enhance security, adding that these included the provision of more than 100 vehicles to security agencies.
He said implementing bolder and innovative strategies had yielded positive results in the last 12 months.
The minister said residents were now sleeping peacefully at night and were confident of the safety of their neighborhoods.
“Creating the Mandate Secretariat for Youth Development and other administrative changes implemented during the year have also improved efficiency, accountability, and service delivery.
“This has helped strengthen governance, making it more responsive to residents’ needs. These accomplishments demonstrate our collective effort and commitment to building a prosperous, unified, progressive FCT,” he said.
