The Civil Society Organisation on Community Advancement and Humanitarian Empowerment Initiative (CSCHEI) has applauded the minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for his commitment to infrastructure development, particularly in road construction and rehabilitation across the territory.
In a statement signed by the director general of CSCHEI, Kunle Yusuff, MON, the organisation said the minister’s strides in improving the road network have enhanced mobility, boosted economic activity, and improved access to healthcare, education, and other essential services in the FCT.
According to the group, Wike’s efforts align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises infrastructural transformation across the FCT’s six area councils.
However, while commending the achievements in physical infrastructure, CSCHEI urged the Minister to take the next bold step by integrating the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into future projects.
The organisation emphasised that incorporating environmental sustainability, climate change mitigation, and social inclusion into development plans is essential for Abuja to attain the status of a “Global Sustainable Green City.”
“For FCT to be rated as a Global Sustainable Green City, we urge the minister to incorporate SDGs into all development initiatives. Projects must be designed to enhance climate resilience, reduce carbon emissions, and ensure social and environmental justice,” the statement read.
The group called for thorough environmental impact assessments before any new project is embarked upon, to minimise ecological damage and promote sustainable growth.
It also stressed the need for targeted community development programmes to lift residents out of poverty, provide jobs, and attract local and international investment.
CSCHEI noted that data-driven, scientifically informed development models would ensure that government initiatives are both impactful and accountable.
“Utilising data and logic in planning and evaluation will enhance project effectiveness and responsiveness to community needs,” the group stated.
The organisation also called for greater collaboration between the FCT Ministry and civil society actors to ensure that grassroots voices are included in the planning and execution of development projects.
It pledged its readiness to partner with the ministry in monitoring and driving sustainable development efforts in the territory.
“Collaborative governance is the key to long-lasting impact. We look forward to working with the honourable minister to ensure that the FCT becomes not just a capital city, but a beacon of sustainability, inclusion, and prosperity,” Yusuff said.
CSCHEI reiterated its belief that a green and socially inclusive FCT is achievable through deliberate policies and inclusive planning underpinned by the principles of the Sustainable Development Goals.
