President Bola Tinubu affirms his administration’s commitment to prioritize development that directly benefits the people by providing essential infrastructure and amenities, aimed at improving the overall quality of life for Nigerian citizens.
During the inauguration of engineering infrastructure in Guzape District Lot II, President Tinubu acknowledged Minister Nyesom Wike’s exceptional leadership during these challenging times for the country.
“These have been trying times for our nation, but Minister Nyesom Wike has shown outstanding leadership. We continue to work towards revamping and reinforcing our financial systems to bring prosperity and relief to our people.
“Minister Wike, you have demonstrated remarkable capability in building and leading a team, as well as delivering on promises. I commend your efforts and say well done.
“To everyone present, including the District Head of Guzape, let us remember that litigation is not the solution. Compensation is the answer.
“We should focus on development that prioritizes the people and brings economic prosperity and benefits. Let us engage with our people and unite to build a stronger Nigeria,” expressed the President.
President Tinubu, while praising the contractor, Gilmor Engineering Limited, emphasized that his commitment to infrastructural development across the country is not driven by personal gain or self-aggrandizement.
“Here I stand as the President, and I want to clarify that I do not own any plot of land in Guzape District. However, I have the support of the people and a mandate to provide a good quality of life and a conducive environment for all.
“This should be enough for us to find joy in our commitment, dedication, perseverance, and the blessings bestowed upon us,” added the President.
In his address, FCT Minister Barrister Nyesom Wike explained that the contract, initially awarded in 2003 at a cost of N14 billion, was divided into Lots 1 and 2, with Dantata & Sawoe Construction Company Nigeria Limited and Gilmor Engineering Limited assigned to each lot, respectively.
“Dantata had long abandoned the site, but after receiving the President’s approval, we managed to bring them back,” said Barrister Wike.
The Minister revealed that the development of the district, encompassing 32km of road, faced numerous legal challenges. However, these obstacles did not hinder the progress of the project.
He noted that before the current administration took office, the project’s cost was revised to N18.17 billion.
Barrister Wike commended the President for his unwavering dedication to the project, emphasizing his belief in the continuity of government.
“Since assuming office as FCT Minister in August 2023, you have never interfered with our work. We sincerely appreciate the freedom you have given us to operate,” he expressed.
The FCT Minister, appealing to the President, proposed naming major roads in Guzape District after renowned literary figures such as Chinua Achebe and JP Clark. He also mentioned that the completion of the “diplomatic area” within the district is expected within a year.
Providing an overview of the project, Executive Secretary of FCDA, Engr. Shehu Hadi Ahmad, highlighted that Guzape District Lot II, the area under development, is an urban fringe covering 620 hectares, with 129 hectares occupied by village settlements.
He further explained that the entire district, comprising Lot 1 and Lot 2, is designed to provide residential, commercial, and recreational facilities, encompassing a total area of 1,070 hectares of land.
