The Senate has progressed deliberations on a bill seeking to establish the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Satellite Towns Development Commission, passing it for a second reading.
The bill, sponsored by Senator Aliyu Wadada Ahmed (SDP, Nasarawa West), addresses the infrastructural and developmental challenges that satellite towns surrounding the nation’s capital face.
During yesterday’s debate in Abuja, Senator Wadada emphasised the commission’s critical need to tackle urban sprawl, reduce infrastructure deficits, and promote sustainable development in these areas.
“This bill, first read on October 22, 2024, seeks to establish the Federal Capital Territory Satellite Towns Development Commission. It is an initiative designed to address FCT satellite towns’ growth and infrastructure needs,” Senator Wadada stated.
He highlighted the socio-economic and political impacts of Abuja’s rapid development on neighbouring towns in states like Nasarawa, Niger, Kaduna, and Kogi.
These towns, he noted, bear the brunt of overcrowding and inadequate infrastructure as they serve as extensions of the capital city, accommodating its workforce.
“While Abuja thrives as Nigeria’s political and economic hub, the satellite towns remain underdeveloped, grappling with inadequate public services and overstretched infrastructure due to population influx,” Wadada added.
He further proposed that the commission’s jurisdiction extend up to 60 kilometres into the contiguous states surrounding the FCT.
Supporting the bill, Senator Sani Musa (APC, Niger East), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, described it as a timely intervention to address the challenges facing satellite towns and border communities.
“With the increasing population and overstretched facilities in satellite towns, this bill is essential. It will help rectify the haphazard development and improve the quality of life in these areas,” he said.
Following extensive debate, the Senate referred the bill to its Committee on the FCT for further legislative input, directing the committee to report back within two weeks.
“If enacted, the proposed commission could mark a significant step toward bridging the development gap between Abuja and its satellite communities.”
