The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, emphasizes that the FCT Administration’s commitment to transforming Abuja into a smart city is unwavering and non-negotiable.
Wike made these remarks during the Annual Media Retreat of the FCT Minister’s Press Corps in Keffi on Sunday.
The retreat has the theme, “Building an Environment that Benefits a Smart City. Healthy Café: A Step Towards Effective City Management”.
The minister, represented by the Director of Press in his office, Mr. Anthony Ogunleye, reaffirmed the FCTA’s dedication to fostering an environment that serves the interests of all through comprehensive initiatives.
He emphasized that the notion of a smart city is not merely an ambitious aspiration but a necessary measure towards achieving sustainable urban development and improving residents’ quality of life.
“It involves the integration of technology, innovation, and strategic planning, to create an environment that is efficient, resilient, and responsive to the needs of its inhabitants.
“We are not only leveraging technological advancements but also prioritising health and well-being at every level of urban planning.
“Initiatives such as accessible green spaces, efficient waste management, sustainable transport systems, and promoting a healthy lifestyle contribute significantly to this vision.
“Let us, therefore, leverage the momentum of President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda and the FCT Administration’s steps towards increased revenues to propel our city into a symbol of innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth.”
Wike urged residents to fulfill their civic responsibilities by promptly paying taxes like ground rent, tenement rent, and utility bills, while the FCTA endeavors to fulfill its obligations to them.
Additionally, the minister expressed dismay at the blatant disregard for basic regulations, such as running red lights and driving against traffic, stating that such behavior will no longer be tolerated.
“Let us work together to build a city where both the government and the public uphold their respective responsibilities for the betterment of our beloved city.
“I urge the media to help us get this message across to all and sundry,” the minister said.
The Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority, Mr. Shehu Ahmad, announced that there are plans to revise the Abuja Master Plan to incorporate present-day conditions into the city’s ongoing development.
Ahmad, represented by the authority’s Head of Public Relations, Mr. Richard Nduul, mentioned that the designs of certain districts are already being considered in the proposed review.
Earlier, Mr. Hudu Yakubu, the Chairman of the Corps, stated that the retreat was convened to deliberate on the significant role of the media in promoting community participation towards the creation of a smart city.
Yakubu said: “As a catalyst of change, the media will play a pivotal role in educating the public about sustainable practices, technological advancement, and civic responsibility in the journey towards building a smart city.”
Addressing the media’s significance in the planning, advancement, and administration of a smart city, Mr. Mukhtar Galadima, Director of the Department of Development Control at FCTA, emphasized the media’s role as strategic partners in urban development.
Galadima, represented by an official from the department, Mr. Muhammed Zayyanu, highlighted the media’s pivotal role in public awareness campaigns, fostering transparency, and holding government entities accountable.
He outlined several aspects of a smart city, including intelligent urban expansion featuring diverse land usage, innovative technologies, an advanced transportation system, pedestrian-friendly environments with green spaces and cycling infrastructure, efficient waste management, and a dynamic economy.