The Nigerian House of Representatives has mandated a thorough investigation into the controversial $460 million Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) project in Abuja. This decision follows renewed public concern over escalating insecurity and rising loss of lives within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), despite the heavy investment in the project.
The resolution was passed after a motion sponsored by Amobi Godwin Ogah, the representative of Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency in Abia State, who highlighted the paradox of worsening security conditions amidst the presence of the CCTV system. The project was initially launched during former President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration to enhance security monitoring across Abuja.
Ogah detailed that the contract was awarded to Chinese firm ZTE Communications, backed by a $460 million loan from the China EXIM Bank. This loan was drawn from a larger $600 million soft credit facility with favorable repayment terms, including a 10-year grace period and an additional 10 years to repay. The Federal Government signed the Memorandum of Understanding for the project in 2010 in Beijing, led by then Minister of Finance Dr. Olusegun Aganga.
Despite the substantial financial outlay and ongoing repayments, Ogah raised serious concerns that the CCTV system remains largely non-functional, failing to improve security or curb the rising crime rate in the capital. He called the situation a “lose-lose nightmare” for Nigeria, considering the financial burden and the lack of tangible security benefits.
The House adopted the motion and resolved to establish an ad hoc committee tasked with investigating the utilization of the loan and the reasons behind the project’s failure. The committee is expected to summon relevant government agencies, contractors involved in the project, and other stakeholders to provide explanations and accountability reports.
Lawmaker Billy Osawaru from Edo emphasized the need for lawmakers to ask tough questions and fulfill their oversight roles responsibly. The committee’s findings will guide further legislative actions to ensure such large-scale security projects deliver their intended benefits in the future.
This investigation underlines growing frustration with the persistent insecurity in Abuja and highlights the urgent need for transparency and effectiveness in government contracts aimed at public safety .