By Daniel Tyokua
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has begun the beautification and landscaping of Umaru Musa Ya’dua express way corridors that link the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
During the flag off exercise on Tuesday, the Minister of the FCT Malam Muhammad Bello said the initiative was part of efforts to ensure the sustained improvement of the aesthetics of the road considering that it is the major gateways into the city.
The plan, which entails comprehensive greening and tree planting drive within 20 meters setback from properties along major road, in collaboration with property developers in the area, Bello said will do the road good.
Bello, While commissioning the exercise, noted that the project is a testament of FCTA’s commitment to achieving one of the functions of the Department of Parks and Recreation as stated in the 2019 Parks Policy by granting permit to Corporate Organizations, Multinationals and Diplomatic Communities for the purpose of exercising their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in the enhancement of greening of the city.
The Minister, who was represented by the FCT Minister of State, Dr. Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu, said in line with the 2019 new FCT Park Policy on Cooperate Social Responsibility (CSR), many stakeholders responded positively to its call with a view to commencing the actual landscaping and beautification of the Express Way.
He said: “This partnership with private entities today is a clear demonstration that government cannot do everything on its own, therefore, FCTA shall continue to work with the private sector and development partners to ensure that continuous progress is made in the beautification of the nation’s capital. “Let me assure you that we are guided by core values of patriotism and dedication to duty; integrity, and respect for due process and rule of law; and nobody will be sub-charged in this partnership”.
In his remarks, the FCTA Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olusade Adesola, commended the property owners along major Abuja landmark who have come together for the implementation of the laudable initiative, as a way of giving back to the society.
He urged other Corporate Organisations to emulate the actions of the property owners along the Airport Road, to add value to the aesthetics of the city.
