The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has inaugurated the “Light Up Abuja Project,” a solar-powered streetlighting initiative aimed at illuminating the capital city, curbing insecurity, and reducing the cost of streetlight maintenance.
Speaking at the launch of Lots I and II of the project on Thursday in Abuja, Wike said the installation of Integrated (Hybrid) Solar Lighting across key districts and expressways would significantly enhance safety in the city.
“Lot 1 will cover Maitama, Central Area, Wuse, Asokoro, and the Airport Expressway, while Lot 2 will take care of Katampe, Katampe Extension, Jabi, Garki, Gudu, and Mabushi,” the minister explained.
According to him, the project entails the supply and installation of 300W integrated hybrid solar-powered streetlights with luminous flux ranging from 7,500lm to 17,500lm, along with galvanized poles for new locations and replacement of vandalized ones. The streetlights will also feature surveillance modules connected to a central control room to detect and deter vandalism.
Wike announced that the project is expected to be completed within six months. He described it as both critical and challenging, recalling that when his administration assumed office in August 2023, about 80 percent of Abuja was in darkness.
“This worsened insecurity and created embarrassment for the nation’s capital,” he said.
The minister explained that during President Bola Tinubu’s visit to Beijing in 2024, the FCTA signed agreements with two Chinese firms—CGC and CCECC—to provide solar-powered streetlights with surveillance features. The firms will also handle maintenance for four to five years, eliminating recurrent expenditure on streetlight repairs.
Wike noted that the reform would displace entrenched interests, including contractors and insiders who previously profited from inflated maintenance costs and vandalism.
“We are ready for the attacks, propaganda, and blackmail. Leadership is about taking tough decisions for the greater good. Abuja cannot remain in darkness if we want to compete globally and host events like the Commonwealth Games,” he said.
He assured residents that the project would be fully delivered within seven months, giving Abuja a new look as the city prepares to celebrate its 50th anniversary in February 2026.
“Anybody flying into Abuja will now see a city beautifully lit, not darkness. Criminals thrive in the dark, but with light everywhere, safety will be greatly enhanced,” Wike added.
FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the project as a landmark initiative that goes beyond illumination.
“This project is about safety, security, sustainability, and service to residents. It promotes renewable energy, reduces Abuja’s carbon footprint, and supports the Smart City Agenda, making the capital a model of sustainable urban living,” she said.
Mahmoud praised Wike’s leadership and vision, stressing that the project would not only boost security but also create jobs for youths and reposition Abuja as a modern, world-class city.
