Minister expresses dissatisfaction with N85 billion infrastructure contract for affordable housing project

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has expressed his dissatisfaction with the N85 billion contract that was awarded for the provision of infrastructure for the Wasa Affordable Housing project in Wasa District, Abuja.

During a visit to the road construction site of the housing estate, Minister Wike, accompanied by officials including the Minister of State for FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, expressed his concern over the arrangement for the project. The contract, which was initially awarded in 2014 for N26 billion, was later revised to N85 billion in 2018. Despite the substantial investment, only 21.4% of the work has been completed.

The housing scheme was established with the intention of providing affordable housing for the masses, with two-bedroom flats initially planned to be sold at N7 million. However, Minister Wike criticized the arrangement by the FCT, stating that the government should not spend such a large sum on infrastructure without gaining any benefits in return.

Minister Wike proposed an alternative approach, suggesting that the government should participate in the project by providing the land and infrastructure. Under this model, private developers would be responsible for constructing the houses and selling them. The government would have a stake in the project and be involved in determining affordable housing prices, ensuring that the masses can afford them.

Additionally, Minister Wike addressed the issue of project delays, which have extended for nine years. He emphasized the need for the FCT to carefully plan and prioritize awarded contracts. The objective is to complete ongoing projects before embarking on new ones, as the lack of funding often leads to project abandonment.

The minister also visited the ongoing road construction site leading to the headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Body of Benchers building. Seeking to ensure project completion, Minister Wike summoned the contractor for a meeting to discuss strategies.

In another development, the minister praised the efforts of the development control team in demolishing shanties in Kabusa Junction, Abuja. He emphasized the importance of preventing the reestablishment of shanties, highlighting the government's commitment to maintaining a clean and orderly FCT environment.

Minister Wike's visit to the Wasa Affordable Housing project and his subsequent statements underscore the need for more effective planning, government involvement, and ensuring affordable housing for the masses.

Source of content: OOO News 2023-09-04 News

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