Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has pledged to complete the Light Up Abuja Project within six months, insisting that no amount of sabotage, propaganda, or blackmail will derail efforts to transform the nation’s capital into a secure, modern, and globally competitive city.
Gatekeepers News reports that Wike made the remarks on Thursday at the official launch of the Integrated Hybrid Solar Street Lighting Project, which he said will serve as a landmark for Abuja as it prepares to mark its golden jubilee in February 2026.
“When we assumed office in August 2023, about 80% of Abuja was in darkness. Lighting is not just about aesthetics—it is a matter of public safety,” Wike said. “This job must be done. I don’t care about the fabrications. With the support of Mr. President, we will light up Abuja.”
Project Details
The initiative will see the installation of state-of-the-art 300W solar-powered hybrid streetlights, with luminous capacities between 7,500 and 17,500 lumens, across key expressways and districts of the capital.
• Lot 1: Maitama, Central Area, Wuse, Asokoro, Airport Expressway
• Lot 2: Katampe, Katampe Extension, Jabi, Garki, Gudu, Mabushi
The project also includes erecting galvanised poles, replacing vandalised infrastructure, and integrating surveillance modules linked to a central control room to curb theft and vandalism. Contractors CGC and CCECC will maintain the system for four to five years, eliminating recurring maintenance costs.
Battling Corruption and Sabotage
Wike alleged that a cartel of “political contractors” and corrupt officials within the FCTA had turned streetlight maintenance into a cash pipeline.
“Files kept coming in weekly for maintenance. It became a nightmare. You keep paying and paying—yet there’s no light. Sometimes, I come back home with headaches,” he said.
He recalled securing agreements with Chinese firms during President Bola Tinubu’s 2024 Beijing visit, noting that surveillance technology convinced him the project could withstand sabotage.
“Some within FCTA will be angry because the usual money will no longer flow. If they want to go on strike, fine. But we must get things done for the good of the people,” he added.
National Pride and Security
The minister stressed that the project goes beyond beautification, describing it as a matter of national pride, security, and job creation.
“How can a capital city preparing to host global events like the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting remain in darkness? It’s unacceptable,” he said. “Criminals thrive in darkness. By the time they come out, they will know they can be seen. It’s no longer business as usual.”
Wike revealed that hundreds of jobs will be created for youths and artisans through the project. “In the past 22 days, we have flagged off multiple projects. This is just the beginning,” he said.
Calling for support from the National Assembly, Wike urged lawmakers to back the initiative financially.
“If we ask for one naira, make it five. Because this time, it will be well spent,” he said.
He concluded with a promise:
“By February 2026, when Abuja turns 50, the city will wear a new look—befitting of a modern capital.”
