Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, has praised the Idu Industrial Park in Abuja, highlighting its potential to create 40,000 jobs.
During his first visit to the park on Wednesday, Wike described the project as “mind-boggling” and emphasized its significance for economic growth.
He stated: “This is mind-boggling. This is my first time visiting the Abuja Industrial Park. You can imagine how the entire Idu area will be developed. This is exactly the kind of investment every government supports, and it’s crucial for Nigeria’s economic growth.”
Wike continued: “You don’t need to be told—having seen what is happening here, something significant will occur in the next three to four years. They have assured us that with the necessary approval, the construction will be completed in eight to nine months, opening up this entire area.”
He further noted: “No city can develop without an industrial park. We are very pleased and grateful to the Managing Director of Zeberced for their commitment to advancing Abuja and boosting Nigeria’s economy. If you observe the quality of production and the thickness of the pipes, it’s evident that this is made in Nigeria. There’s no need to undermine ourselves.”
Wike added: “This is the first time I am seeing something like this in the entire country. While some have conceptualized industrial parks, this one stands out as a wonderland. What’s important now is how we synergize. We allocated this land to them 12 years ago and are currently constructing the road. Without that road, the industrial park wouldn’t be feasible. The government is providing the necessary infrastructure for its development.”
Regarding export and incentives, Wike commented: “The park is already a free trade zone. One of the key incentives for attracting companies is tax exemption. Additionally, stable power supply is crucial. Many businesses are hindered by the lack of reliable power and the high cost of diesel for generators. If power is assured, businesses will thrive.”
He added: “Creating jobs is a primary goal. If this park can generate 40,000 jobs, it will significantly reduce unemployment and contribute to economic growth. Moreover, with the production of exportable goods, Nigeria can harness its raw materials more effectively.”
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Wike also pledged support for the road network to the industrial park: “We are considering the road we used to get here, a single carriageway being constructed by Salini. To complement this, the company has offered to build the second lane, making it a dual carriageway. This could involve tax credits to support the road construction, which is about eight to ten kilometers. This development will attract more companies and ensure regular electricity supply, crucial for manufacturers.”
He concluded: “We will expedite the approval process for the road construction. I have directed the Executive Secretary, FCDA, to ensure everything is in place to fast-track the approval from the Federal Ministry of Finance so that construction of the additional lane can commence, benefiting everyone.”
