FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has declared the end of infrastructure theft in Abuja, unveiling a new anti-vandalism security system for the capital’s streetlights.

The days of driving through a pitch-black Abuja may soon be over. Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has announced a decisive blow against the syndicates stripping the city of its lighting infrastructure. In a tour of ongoing road projects, Wike revealed that all new streetlight installations are being fitted with advanced security features designed to detect and deter vandalism instantly.

Lighting Up the Capital

Speaking to journalists after inspecting the work done by contractors CCECC and CGC Nigerian Ltd, Wike expressed frustration at the rampant theft that had left nearly 80% of the city in darkness upon his assumption of office. "We cannot keep buying bulbs and cables only for criminals to harvest them the next night," Wike stated. [...](asc_slot://start-slot-1)"We will take steps to see that by the time the two companies are finished, you will no longer see much theft of the streetlights."

• The Technology: The new streetlights come equipped with a "Surveillance Module" linked to a central Control Room. Any attempt to tamper with the pole or cut the cable triggers an immediate alarm and captures footage of the perpetrator.
• The Scope: This upgrade is part of the "Light Up Abuja" project, aiming to restore full illumination to the city ahead of the FCT`s 50th anniversary in February 2026.
• The Contractors: Chinese firms CCECC and CGC have been mandated not just to install, but to secure the infrastructure for the next five years.

A "Situation Room" for Infrastructure

Wike admitted that relying on police patrols alone was futile. "How many policemen can you have on the road to check vandalism?" he asked. The new strategy shifts the burden to technology, creating a "Situation Room" where city officials can monitor the status of every light pole in real-time. This move is expected to drastically reduce the maintenance budget, which has been bleeding dry due to constant repairs.

For the residents of Abuja, who have long complained that darkness breeds insecurity, this promise offers a glimmer of hope. If Wike’s high-tech shield holds, the nation’s capital might finally shine as brightly as its status demands. "It is no longer business as usual," the Minister warned.