By Our Correspondent
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to support the completion of the iconic Abuja Millennium Tower, revealing that the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) cannot single-handedly finance the estimated ₦400 billion project.
Wike explained that the massive cost of completing the long-abandoned landmark has risen significantly over the years due to inflation, economic realities, and prolonged delays. He stressed that while the FCTA remains committed to delivering key infrastructure across the nation’s capital, allocating such a huge amount to one project would affect the execution of other critical developments.
According to the minister, the Millennium Tower is more than just a monument. He described it as a strategic national asset that has the potential to boost tourism, attract local and foreign investment, create employment opportunities, and enhance Abuja’s status as one of Africa’s leading capital cities.
He noted that the FCTA is currently investing heavily in road construction, healthcare, education, transportation, and other essential public infrastructure, making it difficult to independently fund a project of such magnitude. For this reason, he said he would seek the intervention of President Tinubu to ensure the project receives the necessary federal support.
The Abuja Millennium Tower, conceived in 2005 as a symbol of Nigeria’s unity and progress, has remained unfinished for nearly two decades despite several attempts to revive construction. Once completed, the tower is expected to become one of the country’s most recognizable landmarks, serving as a major tourist attraction and a center for business, cultural, and recreational activities.
Wike expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s commitment to infrastructure development, noting that the administration has consistently demonstrated its willingness to complete abandoned projects and invest in initiatives that stimulate economic growth.
Observers believe that federal funding for the Millennium Tower could mark a significant milestone in Abuja’s urban development, unlocking new opportunities for tourism, commerce, and job creation while giving the capital city a world-class landmark befitting Nigeria’s status.
Although no approval has yet been announced for the requested ₦400 billion funding, Wike’s appeal signals renewed determination to finally complete one of Abuja’s most ambitious and symbolic projects after years of inactivity.
