The continued non-occupation of the Abuja facility has raised questions about its utilisation, security arrangements and maintenance costs.
Vice President Kashim Shettima has reportedly not relocated to his official residence in Abuja, more than two years after President Bola Tinubu commissioned the facility.
The residence, located in the Three Arms Zone, was commissioned on June 7, 2024, after the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), led by Minister Nyesom Wike, completed the project.
Shettima reportedly continues to use Akinola Aguda House within the Presidential Complex as his official residence.
Project Cost Raises Questions
The project was initially awarded in 2010 at an estimated cost of N7 billion but remained incomplete across successive administrations.
Reports have placed the final cost at approximately N21 billion, although published figures differ depending on whether the original contract and subsequent expenditure are included.
At the commissioning, President Tinubu described the completion of inherited projects as part of efforts to prevent the waste of public resources.
However, the continued non-occupation of the facility has prompted questions about whether additional security, structural or operational requirements remain outstanding.
Security Concerns Remain Unexplained
Security concerns have reportedly been linked to the delay in Shettima’s relocation.
However, the Presidency has not publicly provided a detailed explanation identifying the specific security issues allegedly preventing the vice president from moving into the residence.
Social media claims that Shettima previously occupied the facility and left after allegedly discovering hidden closed-circuit television cameras have not been supported by credible evidence.
A spokesperson for the vice president previously dismissed the claim, maintaining that Shettima remained at Akinola Aguda House.
Calls for Clarification
The continued non-use of the residence has raised questions about its security, certification, maintenance and readiness for residential occupation.
Other issues requiring clarification include whether the facility has undergone all necessary security assessments, whether additional modifications are needed and why the vice president continues to reside elsewhere.
Questions have also emerged about the ongoing cost of securing and maintaining a facility that has reportedly not been used for its intended purpose.
The FCTA had previously indicated that its responsibility for the project ended after completion and handover.
The Presidency is yet to issue a comprehensive public explanation for the delay in Shettima’s relocation.
The residence’s non-occupation continues to attract public scrutiny, particularly given the substantial public expenditure associated with its completion.
