Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has launched the Light Up Abuja Project to install hybrid solar streetlights across the city and major expressways.
Wike said that when he assumed office in August 2023, almost 80 percent of Abuja had no streetlights. He linked the darkness to rising insecurity in the capital.
“Abuja was in darkness, and insecurity was growing. We had to act quickly,” he said.
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The project will run for six months. Lot 1 will cover Maitama, Central Area, Wuse, Asokoro, and the Airport Expressway.
Lot 2 will include Katampe, Katampe Extension, Jabi, Garki, Gudu, and Mabushi.
The streetlights will use 300W solar-powered fittings with brightness ranging from 7,500 to 17,500 lumens.
Workers will also install galvanized poles and a control system to track the lights in real time.
Each light will have surveillance features to detect and stop vandalism.
Wike explained that during a 2024 visit to Beijing, the FCT signed agreements with two Chinese firms, CGC and CECC.
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CGC is handling water projects in satellite towns, while CECC is in charge of the streetlighting.
“With the surveillance system, anyone who tries to damage or steal the lights will be caught. This gives us confidence the project will last,” he said.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
