The Senate on Wednesday passed the Federal Capital Territory Development Commission (FCTDC) bill through the second reading. The bill aims to create a specialized commission tasked with managing the development of satellite towns within a 60-kilometer radius of the FCT’s borders.
Senator Wadada Aliyu, who sponsors the bill, highlights the significant challenges posed by the rapid growth of Abuja as Nigeria’s political and economic center on surrounding towns.
Aliyu explains that the bill outlines a governance structure for the commission, which will include administrative units and local offices for effective management. Funding for the commission will be sourced on a first-line charge basis, in compliance with applicable laws.
The bill received polarized reactions during the debate, with senators expressing concerns over funding and the potential duplication of efforts with existing agencies.
The bill will proceed to the committee stage for further scrutiny and amendments.