Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, defended the allocation of N15 billion for the construction of the Vice-President’s new residence, even as economic challenges persist.
Wike, addressing the House of Representatives committee, acknowledged the initial approval in 2010 at N7 billion but highlighted the project’s abandonment.
“It is embarrassing that a country of this nature cannot, in 13 years, complete the VP’s residence,” Wike stated.
The revised cost, now at N15 billion, prompted an allocation of an initial N5 billion in the FCT’s N61.5 billion 2023 supplementary budget, with a commitment to completing the project by May 2023. Lawmakers raised eyebrows, questioning the substantial budget amidst economic hardship.
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He defended the allocation, emphasizing the necessity of providing the Vice-President with a befitting residence. He stated, “We believe that we are going to incorporate it into our own statutory budget. Let us finish it even if they don’t want to use it.”
In a parallel development, the 2023 supplementary budget earmarked N2.5 billion for the Aguda house renovation, N3 billion for the Vice-President’s residence in Lagos state, and a noteworthy N2.8 billion for FCTA publicity. Wike justified the publicity budget, stating, “You use money to make money.”