FG to build new banquet hall for N2.2b

The Federal Government has budgeted a princely sum of N2.2 billion for the construction of a new Presidential Banquet Hall in Abuja.
The government said the present hall is not befitting enough.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Senator Bala Mohammed, who made the position of the Federal Government known after the weekly Federal Executive Council meeting on Wednesday, said: “We notice that it is inconvenient.
“It is not in tandem with what is outside the country.
“Even smaller countries have better Banquet Halls near the Presidential residence.”
Mohammed said the proposed 150-seater would be constructed by Julius Berger Nigeria Plc.
He said the company was chosen for security reasons and because it is familiar with the Presidential Villa, adding: “Part of the things we are going to provide there is 150-seater with all the facilities that will cover the work ways, security, hall conveniences, technical room and press briefing room as destined from this one but that is more and more enhanced.”
Also on Wednesday, the FEC approved N2.78 billion for the resurfacing of some selected existing roads and remedial works on bridges in Garki and Wuse 1 Districts.
Also approved by the Council on Wednesday was N148.9 million for the conduct of Fiscal Allocation and Statutory Disbursement Audit for the 2007-2011 Oil and Gas Industry Audit.
Presidential spokesman, Dr. Reuben Abati, said the approval was aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability in the extractive industry.
The FEC also approved N13 billion to clear the debts of Nigeria’s foreign missions.