Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that area councils implement the minimum wage approved by the National Assembly.
Wike made this known on Thursday after inspecting three pivotal ongoing projects: the renovation of the International Conference Centre, the construction of the Court of Appeal in Abuja, and the dual interchange on Professor Wole Soyinka Road.
He criticised the recent strike action by primary school teachers and local government workers in the FCT, expressing concern that such actions would have detrimental effects on students, particularly those in primary education.
The minister revealed that he had previously instructed the Minister of State, Mariya Mahmoud, to engage with the striking teachers following a meeting with security agencies and area council chairpersons.
“I directed the Honorable Minister of State to invite the teachers and see what we can do. For them to go on strike, knowing fully well that I directed is not good. We are talking about Nigeria’s interest, not a few people’s,” he said.
He criticised the decision to strike, stating that strikes have historically failed to resolve issues and often exacerbate problems.
“We are talking about Nigeria’s interest, not a few people’s. The strike has never solved any problem. Rather, it has created more problems. So, I believe that, within a short time, we will sort it out,” he said.
While speaking on the project inspections, Wike expressed satisfaction with the progress and quality of the work and expressed optimism that the International Conference Centre would be ready for handover by late April to early May.
He also mentioned that the Court of Appeal project is expected to be completed by September.
Wike highlighted the potential transformation of the city’s landscape once the new roads are completed.
“We are delighted with the level of safety and quality. By God’s grace, Julius Berger will hand over the International Conference Centre by April, ending in May.
“We also believe, as we agreed, with the company carrying out the project of the Abuja Division, the Court of Appeal will be handed over in September this year. We have also agreed with Gilmore, who oversees these two areas and will be part of our second anniversary—competent contractors.
“I mean, you will be glad what the city’s landscape will look like when these roads are open. So, one is happy that the contractors are doing well, and on our part, too, we will make sure that we don’t fail so that they will not find excuses to say that they are unable to hand over the projects to us on time agreed,” he said.
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