Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike has said that increased tax contributions from citizens are vital for financing infrastructure projects.
He said Nigerians are willing to pay their taxes when their contributions lead to tangible developments.
Wike, who made this known yesterday while conducting a project inspection of the ongoing Kuje road construction, affirmed the government’s commitment to delivering vital infrastructure to the area’s residents.
During his visit, Wike highlighted the significant progress made by Arab Contractors on the site, noting that the ongoing work from the airport to the Kuje community has met his expectations.
“What is most important is that Mr. President’s promise is being carried out to the letter. The work is going on fast, and here in Kuje, specifically regarding the dualisation of Garage Road, we believe that by December, the contractor Gilmor will hand over the completed project,” he said.
The minister underscored the strategic importance of the dualisation project, which will extend from Kuje to Gwagwalada and aim to alleviate transportation difficulties in the area.
“This will reduce travel time for anyone moving between Kuje and Gwagwalada. People who have no business along the Giri-Airport axis can now travel directly from Gwagwalada to the city,” he said.
He expressed his confidence in the economic uplift the new road infrastructure will provide, further enhancing community accessibility.
Wike also mentioned the incorporation of streetlights in the plans, stating how these enhancements will transform the city’s landscape.
“People will no longer need to leave Kuje to live in the city for work. The journey will take about 20 to 25 minutes, exactly what everyone hopes for. This is a public road, not a private road. It is to be used by everybody for the public’s interest,” he said.
Addressing concerns about funding, Wike explained the government’s strategic approach to managing available resources prudently.
“No government or institution can claim to have all the resources needed to provide every service. Nigerians are more willing to pay their taxes when they see that their contributions are leading to tangible developments,” he said.
The minister clarified that the government is focused on enhancing its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) as the primary funding source for construction works and projects.
“It is not that we have much money, but we are making concerted efforts to manage our resources effectively and allocate them to the best interests of our people,” he concluded.
As the Kuje road construction progresses, many residents hope these developments will significantly improve accessibility and economic growth in the area.
The government’s ongoing commitment has begun to inspire confidence in its ability to deliver on its promises to the people of Abuja.
