In a significant session held today, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) reviewed pressing national issues and approved a series of key initiatives aimed at addressing the country’s infrastructure needs and economic stability.
Response to Flooding
The Council discussed the recent devastating flooding that affected several regions, particularly noting the destruction of nearly 50 percent of Maiduguri in Borno State. In response, the FEC endorsed President Tinubu’s proposal to establish a Disaster Relief Fund. This fund will be financed by a portion of the Federation account’s revenue, alongside contributions from the private sector.
Infrastructure Assessments
A technical committee will be formed to conduct integrity tests on Alau Dam and other dams across the country, ensuring safety and stability in light of recent flooding concerns.
Economic Stabilisation Bills Approved
The Council approved a package of Economic Stabilisation Bills that incorporate recommendations from the Presidential Committee on Tax and Fiscal Policy Reforms. Key features of the bills include:
- Amendments to income tax laws.
- Incentives for companies that create new jobs.
- Personal income tax relief ranging from N200,000 to N400,000 for public and private sector employees.
- Collaboration between federal and state governments to suspend certain taxes for small businesses and vulnerable populations.
These bills will be forwarded to the National Assembly for consideration.
Major Infrastructure Projects
The FEC also approved several significant contracts to enhance national infrastructure, including:
- 258 km Carriageway: Construction of a three-lane carriageway in Kebbi and Sokoto States, part of a larger 1,000 km superhighway from Illela, Sokoto to Badagry, Lagos.
- Bodo-Bonny Road: Revised funding for the construction of the Bodo-Bonny Road, with costs now adjusted to N280 billion.
- Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Road: Rescoping and downward review of the rehabilitation project to N740.79 billion awarded to Julius Berger.
- Road Contracts in Kogi and Cross River: CCECC Nigeria Limited was awarded two contracts totaling N133.4 billion for road construction and rehabilitation.
Additional Contracts
Further approvals include:
- A N3.2 billion contract to repair the Gamboru Bridge in Borno State, with completion expected in 24 months.
- A N42 billion contract for repairs on the Third Mainland Bridge and adjacent roads in Lagos.
- A N158 billion contract for service lanes leading to the Lekki Deep Sea Port.
- A contract for dualisation of Afikpo-Uturu-Okigwe Road in Ebonyi, Abia, and Imo States.
The Council also approved multiple contracts for the repair of 14 bridges and roads affected by flooding nationwide, emphasizing a commitment to improving the country’s infrastructure.
Federal Capital Territory Initiatives
Additionally, the FCT Ministry received approval for seven memos, including contracts for the construction of Judges Quarters and access roads in Katampe and Mabushi Districts.
The decisions made during today’s meeting reflect the government’s proactive approach to disaster management, economic recovery, and infrastructure development, addressing both immediate concerns and long-term strategic goals for national progress.
