CurrentReport Blog The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has raised concerns about Nigeria’s procurement law, highlighting its impact on the swift execution of key infrastructure projects in Abuja. Speaking on Friday at the official flag-off of the full-scope development of Arterial Road N5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way) from Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III, Wike stressed the need for legislative amendments to expedite project delivery in the nation’s capital.
In his remarks, Wike explained that current procurement procedures are often time-consuming and laden with bureaucratic challenges, leading to delays in infrastructure completion. He noted that some projects have required up to four months for procurement approval, which impedes progress and deters timely development.
“Part of our major headache is the procurement law. While it safeguards public funds, the law also drags us backward by extending timelines unnecessarily,” Wike stated. Drawing from his experience as a former governor, he suggested amending the procurement framework to expedite project timelines, citing how similar adjustments during his tenure allowed rapid infrastructure development, including the completion of 12 flyovers in four years.
The minister expressed gratitude to President Tinubu, recognizing his support for FCT capital projects. Wike’s proposed procurement law amendments aim to eliminate bureaucratic delays, ensuring efficient and timely infrastructure development for the growing capital.