FCT: Wike approves resumption of work on abandoned Utako General Hospital, orders upgrade of others

The 19th Federal Capital Territory Executive Committee, led by Honourable Minister Nyesom Wike, has approved the resumption of construction at the abandoned Utako General Hospital in Abuja. Dr Adedolapo Fasawe, the Mandate Secretary for Health Services, revealed this during a press briefing. Plans include complete construction, equipping, and staffing of the hospital.

Furthermore, the EXCO has approved the immediate award of contracts for the renovation, rehabilitation, and modern re-equipping of all FCT general hospitals. This includes the procurement of new equipment such as X-ray machines, diagnostic materials, and theatre necessities. Utako General Hospital, which has long been neglected, will also receive upgrades.

The EXCO has also prioritized safety enhancements across rural and satellite communities. A six-month contract for security infrastructure at the Wasa informal sector has been approved, including a dedicated police station for the surrounding area. Several police stations in Ushafa and Saburi have already been delivered, with more in advanced stages of completion.

In judicial efficiency, the General Counsel, Salman Dako, announced a contract for the comprehensive digital transformation of the FCT High Court system. This will introduce electronic court recording and automated case management systems, moving away from manual documentation and handwritten proceedings. The EXCO has also approved the procurement of examination materials for basic and secondary schools to ensure smooth examination processes.

Infrastructure and power supply improvements have been prioritized for satellite communities. A N5.3 billion contract has been awarded to Messrs CGC Nigeria Limited for the construction of an eight-month power supply line from Dawakinchi to Tokulo and neighbouring villages in Bwari. Two previously completed projects, the Gaba/Tokulo Road with a river bridge and the Paikon Kore/Ibwa Road rehabilitation, have been commissioned.

Land administration improvements include the award of contracts for the purchase of utility vehicles, a hardware and data centre overhaul for integrated ICT operations, and printing revenue receipts with advanced security features to prevent fraud. Environmental improvements in Abuja, including solid waste collection and waterway desilting, have also been approved.

Public health initiatives include the approval of contracts for high-tech hypochlorite (HTH) powdered chlorine for water treatment and renewed insurance coverage for the Lower Usuma Dam treatment plant. These measures aim to provide residents with clean and safe water.