By Paul Effiong, Abuja
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas disclosed yesterday that Nigeria needs to invest $3 trillion over the next 30 years to bridge the gap in infrastructure.
Abbas made the disclosure during the flag-off ceremony for the construction of the access road from Ring Road 1 by N16 to Judges’ Quarters in Abuja.
He also said road network, power supply, housing, healthcare and education sectors are some of the critical areas in urgent need of attention.
The speaker, who was represented by his Deputy, Benjamin Kalu, informed that the infrastructure deficit in the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, is more glaring, as the city’s population continues to grow at an annual rate of five percent, thereby putting pressure on the existing facilities.
He, however, commended the administration of President Bola Tinubu for prioritising infrastructural development.
He also assured that the House will give the necessary legislative backing to the FCT administration, more so, strengthen its oversight functions to ensure that government delivers on its determination to elevate the status of Abuja.
“Here in Abuja, the infrastructure deficit is more glaring as the city’s population continues to grow at an annual rate of five percent. This puts pressure on existing facilities and highlights the need for more access roads, housing and essential services to cater to the needs of residents.
“Under the leadership of President Tinubu, there have been commendable initiatives aimed at addressing this infrastructure deficit. These initiatives show that government understands the role that infrastructure plays in national development and is committed to making the necessary investments.
“As the legislature of the FCT, the National Assembly has an important role to play in supporting these development efforts. The 10th National Assembly, which I am privileged to lead, is fully committed to collaborating with the executive to ensure that the FCT receives the necessary legislative backing to facilitate infrastructure development. We are ready to consider and pass laws that will enhance the governance structure of the FCT and approve appropriations that will make meaningful infrastructural projects, such as this road construction, a reality.
“Additionally, the National Assembly will continue to exercise its oversight functions to ensure that projects are implemented according to standards and within stipulated time frames”.
Speaker Abbas also commended the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike for his transformative leadership since assuming office.
“The minister has hit the ground running, initiating projects that address the critical needs of this growing city. From road construction to urban renewal programmes, his dedication to enhancing the infrastructure of the FCT is evident. We have witnessed several flag-offs, not just as ceremonial acts, but as milestones in the commitment to make Abuja a world-class city.
“The ongoing rehabilitation of major roads,
clearing of illegal structures and the focus on environmental sustainability are all testaments to the minister’s vision of an Abuja that is not only beautiful but functional and efficient. I am confident that with the completion of this access road and other ongoing projects, residents and visitors alike will experience the positive impact of these developments”, he explained.
