TheCable

Nyesom Wike, minister of the federal capital territory (FCT), has warned directors in the FCT administration against the unnecessary bureaucracy that may delay the delivery of projects in the nation’s capital.

Wike spoke on Tuesday during the flag-off of the construction of a five-kilometre road, connecting Naharati, River Ukya, and Unguwan Hausawa communities in the Abaji area council of FCT.

The minister said he would not allow anyone to stifle the development of rural communities in the FCT under his watch.

“Once I grant approvals, the bureaucracy should be able to do its due diligence within seven days and ensure the release of funds,” NAN quoted Wike as saying.

“We had a meeting on Monday with the most senior directors and I was telling them that woe unto that director who will keep a file that I have approved for weeks.

“Woe unto you because you are a saboteur. Once I approve, do the needful. You can take a week to do due diligence. You don’t need to take 20 days.

“The contractors are humans. When the money does not get to them on time, they incur more costs and then they begin to seek variation even though they know that variation is not in my dictionary.

“So, I need the support of the bureaucracy so that we can deliver the dividends of democracy to the people.”

Earlier, Abdullahi Abubakar, chairman of Abaji area council, said the road project represented a key moment in the council’s journey towards progress and development.

Abubakar said the road connecting Naharati, River Ukya, and Unguwan Hausawa road was deliberately chosen because of its connectivity.

“When completed, it will decongest the by-pass, thus improving access to markets, schools, healthcare facilities, and other essential services for rural communities,” he said.

“This road project will also facilitate the movement of goods and services, boosting economic growth, and supporting agricultural activities.”