…vows to visit Benue over killings
By Sarah NEGEDU
President Bola Tinubu on Monday, commissioned the long-awaited Greater Abuja Water Supply Project, declaring it a turning point in his administration’s effort to deliver people-focused infrastructure, particularly to the underserved communities.
Speaking at the commissioning of Loops 1, 2, 5, and 6 of the city-wide water network, President Tinubu described the project as “not just a technical milestone but a moral one,” which aligns with the Renewed Hope agenda of equity, inclusion, and human development.
“This water infrastructure is not only a technical milestone but a moral one because it is about equity, it is about ensuring that no part of Abuja is left behind in our national development agenda,” he said.
He hailed the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, for his leadership qualities as well as his resolve and commitment to meeting the people’s needs.
“Thank you, the team of Ezenwo Nyesom Wike for exhibiting a very great virtue of leadership. This virtue is when a leader is very conscious of the need of his people and he goes about, committed with dedication to do it. That’s what you have been exhibiting in FCT.”
The President, while praising international partners; particularly the People’s Republic of China, for supporting the delivery of critical infrastructure, called on residents to protect the water project and use it responsibly.
“We are not here today merely to lay the pipes. We are laying the groundwork for healthier families, stronger communities and a more productive city. As your President, I remain committed to accelerating the growth, prosperity, delivery of reliable infrastructure, development of human capacity,” he assured.
While celebrating the achievement in the FCT, the President paused to express his deep concern over the recent killings in Benue State, and announced plans to visit the state on Wednesday to commiserate with victims and seek lasting solutions.
“While I sympathize with the Benue people, I have spoken to the Governor, the leadership and people of Benue, to accept our condolences and try hard, very very consciously to maintain peace and harmony among themselves. I have always said this, that we are one single huge family living in the same house, staying in different rooms, but living together in harmony, will be the result of our diversity for prosperity. We should be able to manage our anger and frustration.
“I sympathize those who have lost their lives, I will adjust my program and go see Benue people on Wednesday. Today is a great day of pride and profound gratitude for the residents of the Federal Capital Territory and indeed for all Nigerians. I am very happy and proud to be part of this auspicious day..”
Earlier in his welcome remarks, the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, recalled that upon assuming office, Tinubu had asked questions about the city’s stalled train and defunct water infrastructure, insisting that urban transportation and water delivery must be restored alongside road projects.
“This contract was awarded in 2017 at the cost of 470 million U.S. dollars. In 2017, under the partnership of African Development initiative, the Chinese government provided 85 percent, while the federal government and FCT provided 15 percent, which is to take care of loops 1, 2, 5, and 6.
“We want to sincerely thank you that, under this administration, the job has been completed, and today you are commissioning the water project.”
The Minister announced that water procurement plans for Bwari, Kubwa, Karu and other suburban communities were already near completion, assuring the President that these would be ready by his third-year anniversary.
“You didn’t only stop there. Last year, when you visited China, luckily for us, I was part of the delegation that went with you. There, FCT also signed an agreement with CGC to provide water to rural areas. I want to say today that we are almost completed with the procurement process to give water to Bwari, give water to Kubwa, give water to Karu, and some of the communities.”
