By Pius Awunah
The Federal Capital Territory Administration FCTA has commenced the installation of integrated hybrid solar-powered streetlights across Abuja to light up the city centre, tackle insecurity and cut down on recurring streetlight maintenance costs.
Speaking at the flag-off of the event in Abuja, on Thursday, October 2, 2025, the FCT Minister, Mr. Nyesom Wike said the project became necessary after years of heavy financial losses to vandalism, cable theft and politically influenced contracts that left over 80 percent of the capital city in darkness.
The minister disclosed that his administration signed agreements in Beijing in 2024 with two Chinese firms – CGC and CCECC – to execute the project.
He revealed that one of the attractions of the new system is its built-in security features to make sabotage and vandalism almost impossible.
“When we came on board, Abuja was almost 80 percent in darkness and insecurity was rising. Every week, files came in for streetlight maintenance, yet there was no light. It became a nightmare.
“This time, it won’t be business as usual. The companies will maintain the facilities for four to five years, and the surveillance technology will ensure vandals and cable thieves are caught.
“No more excuses about darkness in Abuja,” he assured.
Wike stressed that the project would not only improve security across the city but also beautify Abuja ahead of its 50th anniversary in February 2026.
He warned those benefitting from previous faulty maintenance contracts to expect resistance, saying his administration was determined to deliver uninterrupted street lighting regardless of political or social backlash.
The Minister of State for FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, also speaking,said the project represented more than just illuminating the streets.
“This project is about safety, security, sustainability and service to the residents.
“It will promote renewable energy, reduce Abuja’s carbon footprint, and support our Smart City Agenda to make the capital a model of sustainable urban living,” she said.
The minister of state commended Wike for his bold leadership in driving infrastructural reforms in the territory, adding that the solar-powered lighting system would directly improve the lives of residents and businesses across the city.
The project,one of the flagship programmes of the FCTA’s ongoing infrastructure renewal plan,is expected to be completed within seven months,
