Nigerian House investigates CCTV loan as crime rises in Abuja, demanding transparency on the $460 million project

The Nigerian House investigates CCTV loan as lawmakers seek urgent clarity over a $460 million project intended to bolster security in Abuja.

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Despite the substantial Chinese loan secured during the Goodluck Jonathan administration, the installation of Closed-Circuit Television cameras remains uncompleted, while crime continues to surge in the Federal Capital Territory.

The House of Representatives adopted a motion this week calling for a comprehensive investigation into the CCTV project after concerns about escalating insecurity in Abuja.

Hon Amobi Ogah, who represents Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency, emphasised the urgency of the probe, highlighting the alarming lack of progress despite ongoing debt repayments.

In 2010, the federal government secured a soft loan of $460 million from the China-EXIM Bank, aimed at installing surveillance cameras in key strategic locations across Abuja.

However, over a decade later, the promised security benefits have failed to materialise.

The project’s contractor, ZTE Communications, has been under scrutiny, with no tangible evidence of completed works.

Lawmakers lament the situation as a troubling example of mismanaged public funds, with Edo lawmaker Billy Osawaru urging the House to exercise rigorous oversight and demand accountability from all involved parties.

The issue also attracted legal attention when, in 2023, a Federal High Court ordered the government to disclose detailed information on how the loan was utilised following a suit by the Socio-Economic and Accountability Project.

As the House sets up an ad-hoc committee to examine the case, Nigerians await decisive action to address both the unfinished project and the persistent security challenges in the capital city.

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This investigation represents a critical step towards restoring public trust and ensuring that future investments deliver tangible safety improvements for Nigerian citizens.