The Federal Executive Council has approved plans to build official homes for the nation's top judges. The council also approved major water projects for the Federal Capital Territory. These decisions were made during a meeting led by President Bola Tinubu in Abuja.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, announced the approvals. He spoke to reporters after the council meeting ended. He said the projects are part of a wider plan to improve the nation's infrastructure. The government wants to ensure that key public servants have proper housing. It also aims to solve water supply problems in the capital city.
The plan for judges' residences involves building new homes for the heads of important courts. This includes the Chief Justice of Nigeria and the President of the Court of Appeal. It also includes the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court. The government says providing good housing is crucial for the judiciary. It helps protect the independence and dignity of the judicial arm of government. The minister did not give the exact cost of the housing project. He said the amount would be managed by the Federal Capital Territory Administration. The FCTA will handle the planning and building process.
The second major approval involves water and other infrastructure work in the FCT. Minister Wike said the council approved a large contract to improve water supply. The project focuses on the Southern part of the Federal Capital Territory. It includes building new water treatment plants. It also involves expanding the network of pipes that deliver water to homes and businesses. The goal is to provide a reliable and safe water source for residents. This is expected to reduce the hardship faced by many people in the area.
The minister also mentioned other projects approved for the capital. He said the council approved more money for ongoing road work. This extra funding is for the completion of the Outer Southern Expressway. This road is a vital link connecting different areas of the FCT. The added funds will help contractors finish the project faster. Better roads are expected to ease the daily traffic problems in the city.
These approvals show the government's current focus on infrastructure development. Officials argue that investing in housing and water is essential. They say it supports the work of important institutions and improves living conditions for citizens. The projects for the judiciary are seen as a direct support for the legal system. A well-housed and secure judiciary is considered a cornerstone of a stable society.
The water project in the FCT addresses a long-standing issue. Many parts of the capital, especially newer areas, have faced challenges with water access. Residents often rely on private water vendors, which can be costly and less safe. A government-run water supply is expected to be more dependable and affordable for the public.
The council's decisions come amid broader economic challenges in the country. Some observers may question the timing of these large spending plans. The government, however, presents them as necessary investments. It says they will create jobs and stimulate economic activity in the construction sector. The projects are also framed as part of its commitment to renew the nation's aging infrastructure.
Minister Wike assured that the projects would follow strict rules for public contracts. He said the government is committed to transparency and getting good value for the money spent. The various contracts will be awarded to qualified companies. Their work will be monitored to ensure it meets the required standards.
There was no immediate statement from the judiciary on the housing approval. However, past requests from judicial bodies have often highlighted the poor state of official housing. Leaking roofs and poor security have been mentioned as problems in the past. This new initiative is likely to be welcomed by the judicial community.
For FCT residents, the water project promises a significant improvement in daily life. Reliable water access affects health, sanitation, and the overall cost of living. The success of this project will be measured by its completion and the actual flow of water to households.
The government has not announced a detailed timeline for the start of construction. The minister's announcement indicates that the planning and contracting phases are now cleared to proceed. The public will now watch for the next steps. They will look for the start of actual construction work on the ground.