Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Nyesom Wike, has flagged off the installation of streetlights in Abuja, saying the project is aimed at reducing crime in the city.
The minister noted that the absence of streetlights has made Abuja vulnerable to insecurity, with almost 80% of the city in darkness.
“So it has been a sense of concern for me and my team. But we felt that we must take up the challenge. When we came on board August 2023, one thing anybody who visits Abuja or who resides in Abuja will identify is that totally almost 80% of the entire city is in darkness”.
“Secondly, there was this issue of insecurity when we came on board. So we are trying to see how to tackle this issue. If we continue to leave Abuja in darkness, obviously insecurity will increase. So we decided to do what we can and what was available.”
To tackle vandalism and sabotage, the minister revealed that the new streetlights will come equipped with surveillance features, enabling authorities to identify and apprehend anyone attempting to damage or steal the lights.
“Another sabotage will come from the criminals. Criminals will not believe that it will be difficult for them to go and steal cables, it will be difficult for them to vandalize the poles because now there will be security features. They will know it will no longer be easy, and it will no longer be business as usual. So, they will have their own style of campaign. Let me assure everybody that our security agencies will work in synergy with the companies to make sure that this project is being protected.
“Another area of attack will be those who normally buy these poles. When they vandalize them, they go and sell to them to resell. It is no longer going to be business as usual. So you will also see attack from that area.
“One thing that attracted me was the fact that they are going to put surveillance features so that if you go and try to vandalize it or try to steal it, they will be able to identify it. And so that issue, I was happy that that area had been solved,” he said.
He revealed that the companies responsible for the installation will maintain the streetlights for 4-5 years, eliminating the need for frequent maintenance.
He noted that the project is expected to create employment opportunities for youths in the area, and Well-lit streets will deter criminals and improve overall safety in Abuja
Wike expressed his determination to complete the project despite potential challenges, including sabotage from various groups.
He assured that the FCT Administration will work closely with security agencies to protect the project and bring perpetrators to justice.
“Let me assure everybody that our security agencies will work in synergy with the companies to make sure that this project is being protected,” he said.
