By Tokunbo2

Copyright thesun

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike has initiated a comprehensive streetlight installation across Abuja to boost public safety and curb the rising crime linked to poor illumination.

“Almost 80% of the entire city is in darkness. So it has been a sense of concern for me and my team. When we came on board in August 2023, this lack of lighting was evident to anyone who visits or lives in Abuja,” Wike stated, stressing the urgent need for better lighting.

Pointing to the direct connection between darkness and insecurity, he warned, “If we continue to leave Abuja in darkness, obviously insecurity will increase. So we decided to do what we can with what was available.”

The new streetlights will feature advanced surveillance technology designed to deter vandalism and theft, enabling authorities to identify offenders quickly.

“Criminals will no longer find it easy to steal cables or vandalize poles because of the security features,” Wike assured. “Our security agencies will work in synergy with the companies involved to protect this project.”

Addressing the problem of stolen streetlight poles being resold, the minister declared, “It is no longer going to be business as usual. Those who buy these poles will face difficulties because the surveillance will make identification easy.”

To ensure durability and reliability, installation firms will be responsible for maintenance over the next four to five years. “There will be no more headaches of reporting streetlight failures at night only to have them fixed the same day. The companies will maintain everything for four or five years, ensuring security and reliability,” Wike explained.

The initiative is also expected to create employment opportunities for Abuja’s youth. “Look at the number of jobs it will create for our teeming youths. We have already embarked on many projects and commissioned,” he said.

With Abuja’s 50th anniversary approaching in February, Wike expressed hope that the project would transform the city’s safety landscape. “How will Abuja look in its jubilee year? It will be brighter, safer, and criminals will run away because people will see them.”

Acknowledging potential risks like sabotage, Wike recommits to completing the project within seven months through close cooperation between security forces and contractors. “Let me assure everyone that our security agencies will work closely with these companies to protect the project and bring any saboteurs to justice.”

He extended gratitude to the Senate, House of Representatives, and community leaders for their backing, urging citizens to demand accountability. “That is why when we ask for money in the Senate, we encourage increasing it, knowing it will be well spent. Thank you for your support,” he said.

In addition, Wike announced the launch of solar-powered streetlights on 12 more roads as part of the administration’s push for sustainable urban development.

FCT Minister of State Dr Mariya Mahmoud highlighted the initiative’s alignment with Abuja’s safety, security, and renewable energy goals under the Smart City Agenda. “This project not only improves security but promotes renewable energy, reduces our carbon footprint, and helps position Abuja as a model for sustainable urban living,” she said, praising Wike’s visionary leadership.