Babatunji Wusu –
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has stated that the efforts of the FCT Administration to develop Abuja into a smart city are unassailable.
On Sunday, February 25, 2024, at the FCT Minister’s Press Corps Annual Media Retreat in Keffi, Wike made this statement.
The theme of the retreat was “Creating a Setting That Helps a Smart City.” A Step Towards Efficient City Management with the Healthy Café
The minister, accompanied by Anthony Ogunleye, the Director of Press in his office, reiterated FCTA’s commitment to fostering an environment that is beneficial to all through a range of programs.
The previous governor of Rivers State emphasized that the idea of a “smart city” is not only an aspirational goal but also an essential step in guaranteeing sustainable urban growth and a higher standard of living for locals.
He said: “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.”
While the FCTA works to fulfill its duties to the residents, Wike urged the people to uphold their civic responsibilities, which include paying taxes on time for things like ground rent, tenement rent, and utility bills.
In addition, the Minister for the Federal Capital Territory conveyed profound dissatisfaction with the flagrant disrespect for basic laws, like running red lights and driving in the incorrect way.
Wike made it clear that these kinds of actions would no longer be accepted.
Together, let’s construct a city where the people and the government fulfill their respective roles to improve our cherished city.
The minister urged the media to assist in spreading this message to everyone.
Shehu Ahmad, the Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority, stated in his speech that works are already underway to update the Abuja Master Plan to reflect current city development conditions. Ahmad’s message was relayed by Mr. Richard Nduul, the authority’s Head of Public Relations, who said that the plans for some districts are already part of the next assessment.
Hudu Yakubu, the Corps Chairman, had earlier in the retreat emphasized the role of the media in encouraging community involvement for the development of smart city initiatives.
“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,” stated Yakubu. “As a catalyst of change.”
Speaking on the function of the media in the design, construction, and administration of smart cities, Mukhtar Galadima, Director of FCTA’s Department of Development Control, referred to the media as important partners in urban development.
Galadima’s representative in the department, Muhammad Zayyanu, underlined the media’s vital role in promoting openness, educating the public, and holding public officials responsible.
He listed a number of characteristics that make up a smart city, including smart urban expansion with mixed land use, cutting-edge technologies, an intelligent transportation system, a walkable city with infrastructure for bicyclists and green spaces, intelligent waste management, and a smart economy.
