Four decades after the movement to the Federal Capital Territory FCT from the Lagos axis , virtually all the natural resources has remained untapped and unutilized.
The negative development since the movement since the 80s negates the tenets of collective bargaining that cannot sustain the current situations in the country and the current Renewed Hope Agenda, with the flip Barrister Nyesom Ezenwo Wike is administering the territory.
Since natural resources are the bane of human existence, the idea of transmuting them into workable things cannot be overemphasized.
The existence of Lower Usman Dam, Pedan Dam , Jabi Lake Dam and Kilankwa Dam is capable of attracting many natural resources, harness maximum utilization and trigger many natural endowment, that is capable of generating not only revenues, but tourism development among many others.
The access to natural resources development fund to boost infrastructure and agricultural projects across FCT will be an additional advantage, hence the Minister’s brief to the leadership of Revenue Mobilization, Allocation and Fiscal Commission RMAFC.
While restating the commitment of FCT administration under him not to leave any resources untapped , Wike promise judicious use of any proceeds from the natural endowment, rather than allowing it to lie low with illegal activities thriving is commendable.
Aside Dams, other areas like Solar Irrigation, Mechanized Farming, and Tourism Development will be harnessed to assist in that regard
He further stated …
“The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has requested the backing of the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) to access the Natural Resources Development Fund to boost infrastructure and agricultural projects across Abuja.”
“Representing the Minister, the Acting Chairman of the FCT Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Mr. Michael Ango, led a delegation from the FCT administration to present the request to the commission. This visit follows an earlier letter from the Minister seeking approval to access the funds, according to the commission’s spokesperson, Mrs. Maryam Yusuf.”
“Making his case, Wike outlined several critical projects that the funds would be used for, including: Rehabilitation and Delis*ting of Dams: The targeted dams include Lower Usuma Dam, Pedan Dam, Jabi Lake Dam, and Kilankwa Dam. The aim is to support year-round crop production through better water management.”
“Solar-Powered Irrigation Systems: To enhance dry-season farming and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, the Minister plans to install solar-powered irrigation systems across key agricultural zones in the FCT.”
“Mechanized Farming and Support for Small-Holder Farmers: Plans include the establishment of six mechanization service centers and the procurement of tractors, harvesters, and other modern farming equipment.”
“The initiative also aims to provide crop-specific harvesting tools and on-farm storage technologies to minimize post-harvest losses and improve market access.”
“Modernization of Markets and Veterinary Services: Wike intends to modernize grains and cattle markets, improve animal breeding, and enhance veterinary services to boost the local agricultural economy.”
Tourism and Solid Minerals Development: The Minister also highlighted plans to develop the FCT’s tourism sector and explore its solid mineral deposits as part of broader economic diversification efforts.
“Wike assured the Commission that the funds would be “judiciously utilized” if the request is granted, emphasizing the transformative impact it would have on the socio-economic development of the FCT.”
