From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, yesterday, announced Renewed Hope City aimed to provide 10,000 housing units for low-income earners in the city.
He made the disclosure during a recent presentation at a ministerial sectoral update in Abuja, where he outlined the commitment of the FCT to embed the project in the upcoming appropriation budget.
He stressed the importance of providing essential infrastructure within the city and establishing transparent criteria for selecting beneficiaries.
Addressing concerns about corruption in land allocation processes, the minister expressed determination to combat malpractices within the FCT’s land department and the Abuja Geographic Information Systems (AGIS).
Wike condemned double allocation of land and the instigation of land disputes, vowing to eradicate corruption within the departments.
Furthermore, he highlighted the need to uphold the integrity of the Abuja master plan and crack down on violations of development control requirements. He underscored the importance of strong leadership in enforcing rules and combating fraudulent practices by estate developers that hoard land for resale instead of development.
He affirmed that despite challenges posed by religious and ethnic influences in land administration, his administration has resolved to prioritise merit-based decisions.
Wike also announced that the Abuja Light Rail to be commissioned by President Bola Tinubu on Monday, May 27, 2024, will provide complimentary rides for two months to Abuja residents.
He, however, urged residents to begin use of the Metro rails from Tuesday, May 28, adding that the goal was to aid the ease of commuting for residents, saying it might be extended to six months if approved by the president.