Nigeria’s Minister of The Federal Capital Territory Minister of Abuja, Mr, Nyesom Wike, has signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) with the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation and the China Geo-Engineering Corporation Overseas Construction Group to enhance the lighting of Abuja and boost rural water supply.
According to the statement by the Director of Press in the Office of the FCT Minister, Anthony Ogunleye on Sunday in Abuja, the MoUs were signed in Beijing, China, during the just concluded China-Africa Cooperation Summit.
He added that the projects outlined in the MoUs are expected to be completed in time for the 50th anniversary of the creation of Abuja.
“One key project that is very dear to us is the lighting up of Abuja. As Abuja will celebrate its 50th anniversary next year, we envision it to be a jubilee year. We want Abuja to shine like other global cities, similar to the lighting we have seen in Beijing,” the statement quoted the minister as saying.
It explained that the CCECC will handle the lighting of key areas of the city, including Maitama, Asokoro, Wuse, the Central Business Area, Airport Road, and Bill Clinton Drive, while CGCOC will manage the lighting projects in Mabushi, Katampe, and Garki districts.
Apart from the lighting project, the minister addressed the provision of water as well as highlighting the progress on the Greater Abuja Water Works project, managed by CGCOC, which is nearing 75 per cent completion.
“The minister expressed optimism that the project would be completed by December. Wike also announced plans to extend water supply to rural areas, including Gwagwalada, Kwali, and Kuje, through a new MoU with CGCOC.
“He underscored the President’s directive to not only focus on the city but also to address the needs of rural communities,” the statement said.
The statement added that both Mr Chen Sichang, President of CCECC, and Mr. Lan Meizhong, Chairman of CGCOC, expressed their gratitude for the trust placed in them and assured of their commitment to delivering the projects with high quality and within the stipulated timelines.
GIK/APA