Abuja’s long-awaited *Light Up Abuja Project* officially kicked off today, October 2, 2025, as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, flagged off the installation of Integrated (Hybrid) Solar Lighting across major districts and expressways in the capital city.
The ambitious project, expected to be completed in six months, will cover two major lots. Lot I will span Maitama, Central Area, Wuse, Asokoro, and the Airport Expressway. Lot II will take care of Katampe, Katampe Extension, Jabi, Garki, Gudu, and Mabushi.
Speaking at the flag-off, Wike described the project as “a turning point in the beautification, security, and modernization of Abuja.”
> “Today we are matching words with action. For years, the people of Abuja have demanded safe, well-lit roads at night, and under the Renewed Hope Agenda, this is no longer a promise — it is a reality,” the minister declared.
The *Light Up Abuja Project* involves the supply and installation of 300W Zolar-powered hybrid solar streetlights, with luminous flux ranging from 7,500lm to 17,500lm. It also includes galvanized streetlight poles to replace vandalized or knocked-down ones and new poles in underserved locations.
Crucially, the project comes with an advanced security system.
> “Each streetlight will be equipped with surveillance modules, connected to a central control room. This means any attempt to vandalize or tamper with the installations will be captured and dealt with immediately,” Wike explained.
The minister emphasized that the project will not only improve visibility and security but also reduce the city’s carbon footprint by relying on hybrid solar technology.
Residents in affected districts expressed optimism. A motorist along the Airport Expressway said, “Driving into Abuja at night has always been risky because of poor lighting. This project is a welcome development.”
With today’s flag-off, Abuja is set to shine brighter, literally, in the coming months.
