The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) administration has formally applied to access the Natural Resources Development Fund (NRDF) to support a range of strategic projects aimed at enhancing socio-economic development in Abuja.
The request was presented by a delegation led by Michael Ango, Acting Chairman of the FCT-Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS), during a session with the Fiscal Efficiency and Budget Committee of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC).
Representing FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, Ango highlighted proposed initiatives in agriculture, solid minerals, and tourism. These projects, he noted, align with the federal government's Renewed Hope Agenda, focusing on economic diversification and sustainable growth.
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Ambassador Desmond Akawor, Chair of the committee, explained that the 1.68% NRDF was created under the Revenue Allocation Act to support diversification projects. For approval, the FCT must undergo a rigorous review process involving a formal presentation, site inspection, and final endorsement by the President.
Proposed FCT projects include dam rehabilitation for irrigation, solar-powered farming systems, agricultural equipment support for smallholders, improved storage and market access, upgrades to livestock markets, and investment in tourism and mining.
Ango assured that the funds, if granted, would be used transparently and effectively.The request follows a formal application from Minister Wike and is now subject to RMAFC's evaluation and presidential approval.
