The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, says Nigerians will have no choice but to sing President Tinubu’s praises by the time his first term concludes.
Wike stated this during the flag-off ceremony for the construction of another road from Life Camp Junction to Ring Road 3, known as the N5 arterial road in Abuja. This is the fifth road flagged off for construction within the week.
Wike explained that President Bola Tinubu is making every effort, economically and infrastructure-wise, to address the various challenges facing the country. He expressed confidence that these strategic measures will soon yield the expected results, including alleviating hunger.
The FCT Minister urged Nigerians to continue praying for the country and its leaders, assuring them that measures have been put in place to ensure that all citizens benefit from the various Renewed Hope Initiatives.
According to Wike, the multiplier effect of the recent road projects flagged off within the last week has already generated direct and indirect employment for hundreds of FCT residents.
Wike also encouraged Julius Berger, the company handling the project, to aim for completion within 14 months, as opposed to the initial contract term of 18 months. He hinted at an attractive offer of additional contracts if they could meet the 14-month deadline.
While the contract sum for the project was not disclosed, Wike announced that the FCTA had made a 70% upfront payment to Julius Berger for the awarded projects.
He expressed optimism, saying, “I can tell you, before the end of this administration of President Tinubu, Nigerians will smile. These problems — hunger, suffering — have been around for decades, whether under PDP, APC, or military rule. But with his commitment, he’s implementing temporary but challenging measures that will ultimately bring relief. Keep praying for Mr. President.”
He added, “I thank Mr. President for ensuring continued work in the FCT and giving us the latitude to increase our development threshold. School renovations are also underway. I’m sure residents didn’t believe this road would be completed, but Mr. President insisted on it. We are here to restore hope.”
At the flag-off ceremony, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, represented by Senate Committee on FCT Chairman Ibrahim Bomai, praised the FCTA’s road construction efforts, highlighting the importance of good road networks in promoting socio-economic activities.
Senator Akpabio commended Wike’s foresight in improving the Federal Capital Territory’s revenue base and pledged the 10th Assembly’s support to ensure the speedy passage of bills aimed at accelerating infrastructure development.
Providing an overview of the project, Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) Executive Secretary Shehu Hadi Ahmad said the 4.4-kilometer, six-lane road will facilitate seamless access to key areas like Kado Fish Market, Life Camp, and Karimu.
Ahmad added, “N5, named Obafemi Awolowo Road, connects the International Conference Centre to Julius Berger Herbert Macaulay, starting from Life Camp Junction in Gwarinpa1 District and extending to Ring Road 3 in Iddo Gwari District. This 4.4 km, six-lane dual carriageway will bring much-needed relief to residents in Kado, Karimu, Gwarinpa, Dape, Iddo-Gwari, Saburi, and Dei-Dei.”
