The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, expressed his concern about the prolonged 13-year effort to complete the construction of the Vice President’s residence in Nigeria.
During his address to the House of Representatives committee, Wike defended the allocation of N15 billion for the construction, even in the face of ongoing economic challenges.
Wike emphasized the importance of providing a dignified residence for the Vice President and suggested incorporating the project into the statutory budget. He urged the completion of the residence, regardless of whether it would be immediately utilized.
The Minister acknowledged the initial approval of N7 billion for the project in 2010 but highlighted its abandonment over the years.
In a separate course, the supplementary budget for the year 2023 has earmarked the sum of N2.5 billion for the refurbishment of the Aguda House, another N3 billion dedicated to enhancing the residence of the Vice President in Lagos state, and a substantial N2.8 billion allocated for the publicity activities of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).
Offering a rationale for the allocation to publicity, Governor Wike articulated, “Investing money leads to generating more money.”
He affirmed his commitment to applying maximum effort to ensure the successful completion of the construction project for the Vice President’s residence.
Nigeria, a nation endowed with oil and various natural resources, finds itself grappling with a distressing paradox as its citizens endure the harsh realities of hunger and poverty.
The stark contrast between the country’s resource wealth and the pervasive hardship faced by its people has become a subject of considerable criticism among Nigerians.
abundant resources the country possesses, particularly in terms of oil, and the palpable struggles experienced by a significant portion of the population in meeting basic needs and escaping the clutches of poverty.
This critique underscores a broader societal dialogue on the effective utilization and distribution of the nation’s wealth to address the pressing issues of livelihood and well-being for all citizens.
