The Senator representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ireti Kingibe, has raised concerns over what she described as “uneven allocation of resources in the country. ”
She noted that while every state of the federation is represented by three senators, FCT which is bigger than most states is represented by one senator only.
According to her, this disparity limits the resources available to the territory and as such, affecting development in the zone.
Addressing beneficiaries of over 10,000 Medical Equipment distributed freely at her Constituency in Jahi Abuja, in which representatives of the six area councils / hospitals in FCT, Labour Party Executives, traditional, etc, were in attendance, the lawmaker represented by her Senior Legislative Aide (SLA), Dr. Christien Omofoma, explained that despite the limited resources at his Principal’s disposal, she has been doing her best to improve the lives of the FCT residents.
He said that Senator Kingibe has been working tirelessly with what she is available and wondered the level of impact she would have made if the FCT was being funded like states which has three senators each and as such, receives three portions of allocation at that level.
“FCT deserves more attention and resources,” he stated.
The SLA further stated that the lack of collaboration between the FCT Senator and the FCT Minister is hindering the inclusion of vital projects in FCT’s budget.
“This disconnect has led to many important projects being left out of the budget, which impacts the progress of the territory.”
He added, but expressed optimism that the differences would soon be over.
Equipment distributed included wheelchairs, walkers, walking aids, critical medical tools, such as consumables, etc.
Also speaking at the event, Head of Constituency Office, HoC, Ambassador Emmanuel Destiny, described the project was a monumental success in which healthcare centres benefited from, noting that he did not expect the event to be as large as it was.
“It was beyond my expectations. All the General Hospitals, National Hospitals, Federal Medical Centres, and Teaching Hospitals were present, and they left with their buses filled with medical supplies,” he shared.
Emmanuel commended his boss whom he said dedicates over 90% of her salary and other resources towards alleviating suffering in her zone through her numerous empowerment program in agriculture, health, education, water, labour, etc.
A beneficiary identified as the Vice-President of the Network of Women with Disabilities, Madam Rose, spoke at the side of the event, suggesting what she described as targeted support for those most in need.
According to her, distribution of medical equipment of that nature and magnitude could be better managed in collaboration with organizations of persons with disabilities so as to ensure that those who really need the items get them.
She emphasized the need to prioritize women with disability in the distribution of such equipment, noting that women are more vulnerable.
She commended the Senator so much for the initiative.