FCTA Proposes N26.6 Billion for Water and Environment in 2024 Budget

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has proposed a substantial sum of N26.6 billion to the FCT Water Board and the Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB) in its 2024 budget to enhance water treatment and supply, as well as maintain a clean and healthy environment in the territory.

Minister of the FCT, Mr Nyesom Wike, presented the N1.15 trillion 2024 proposed FCT Statutory Budget to the Senate and House Committees on FCT, highlighting the importance of the allocation.

Out of the N26.6 billion, N9 billion is earmarked for the water sector, with N2.2 billion allocated for water treatment chemicals, and N7.4 billion for the FCT Water Board personnel and overhead costs, and capital expenditure.

Wike emphasized the acceleration of the Greater Abuja Water Project, which is being executed through a China Exim Bank Loan.

Completion of the project will extend water supply to about 26 districts and layouts in the FCT.

In an effort to bridge the gap between current revenue generation in the water sector and its inherent potential, the FCTA is exploring Public Private Partnership for the deployment of pre-paid water meters at points of consumption.

This initiative aims to minimize wastages and address revenue shortfalls in the sector.

A total of N17.6 billion has been allocated to the AEPB to maintain a clean and healthy environment in the FCT.

The City Cleaning contracts of the FCT require over N7 billion per annum, while the maintenance of the Wupa Sewage Treatment Plant requires about N2.5 billion annually.

The FCTA is reviewing its mode of operations to initiate a more cost-efficient city cleaning strategy in the 2024 fiscal year.

Senators Ibrahim Bomai and Muktar Betara, the Chairmen of the Senate and House Committees on FCT, respectively, commended the minister for the development strides in the FCT and assured him of the National Assembly’s full support.

This comprehensive budget allocation for water and environment in the 2024 FCTA budget demonstrates a strong commitment to providing clean water and maintaining a healthy environment for residents of the Federal Capital Territory.