Wike Warns Against Illegal Street Naming, Begins Engineering Infrastructure In Guzape, Asokoro

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has warned that his administration will no longer tolerate the indiscriminate and unauthorized naming of streets in the Federal Capital City.

Wike issued the warning on Tuesday during the flag-off ceremony for engineering infrastructure projects in Guzape District (Cadastral Zone AO9, Lots 1 and 2) and the AIT neighbourhood in Asokoro (Cadastral Zone AO4).

Expressing dismay over reports that some individuals and local officials were collecting money from private persons to name streets after them, the Minister said the practice was unacceptable and must stop immediately.

“You cannot just wake up and name a street after someone because they gave you money. Streets should be named after people who have contributed meaningfully to the development of our city or our nation,” Wike cautioned.

According to Wike, the era of buying street names is over, adding that Government must approve every street name and ensure it reflects our shared values and the true history of Abuja.

Wike, who was visibly displeased, revealed that he had earlier pardoned such actions but vowed not to do so again.

He emphasized that only the FCT Administration has the authority to name or rename streets within the city.

The Minister also used the occasion to reaffirm President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to providing modern infrastructure and ensuring even development across all districts of the FCT.

“It is the intention of Mr. President to ensure that every part of Abuja has the right infrastructure and road networks that will make the city function efficiently. Many residents here have lived for years without access roads. But under this administration, that narrative is changing,” Wike said.

He urged residents to cooperate with the contractors to enable timely completion of the project, warning against actions that could delay the work and lead to cost variations.

“Contractors prefer when you delay them so that there will be variation, but that only hurts us as a people. Please support them so that our people can begin to enjoy the benefits of this infrastructure,” Wike advised.

Wike further commended the indigenous construction firm, Dantata and Sawoe, expressing confidence in their ability to deliver quality work within schedule.

He also encouraged the company to employ local youths and artisans during the construction phase to provide livelihood opportunities.

Earlier, the Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the project as another testament to President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at ensuring that every district in the capital city is accessible, connected, and well-serviced.

“Beyond opening up these districts for development, the road networks and associated infrastructure will enhance connectivity between neighbourhoods, reduce travel time, and decongest adjoining routes,” she stated.

Earlier, the Executive Secretary FCDA, Richard Dauda said the contract awarded to Dantata and Sawoe Construction Company covers about 24 short routes totaling 9.2 kilometres.

He said the scope of work includes the construction of asphalt-paved roads, drainage systems, water distribution networks, street lighting, power supply, and telecommunication ducts.

When completed, the project is expected to enhance security, improve movement, and boost the overall standard of living for residents within Guzape and Asokoro districts.

Remi Johnson, Edited By Grace Namiji