President Bola Tinubu has honored Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, by naming the newly inaugurated Arterial Road N20 in Abuja after him. The President inaugurated the road on Tuesday, marking a significant milestone in the city’s infrastructure development. This arterial road runs from the Northern Parkway to the Outer Northern Expressway (ONEX) and plays a crucial role in connecting various parts of the city.
The Arterial Road N20 is one of the key transverse roads that link ONEX with the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) through several sector centers. According to presidential spokesman Ajuri Ngelale, this new road will greatly enhance vehicular traffic circulation from the bounding districts of Mabushi, Katampe, Jahi, and Kado. The improved connectivity is expected to alleviate traffic congestion and facilitate smoother transportation across these districts.
During the inauguration ceremony, President Tinubu emphasized the significance of the project as part of his administration’s broader development agenda aimed at transforming all parts of Nigeria. He stated, “The recommendation to name this Arterial Road N20 after Wole Soyinka is well received. Prof. Soyinka is our foremost playwright, novelist, and Nobel Prize winner. He has brought Nigeria fame, pride, and international acclaim. We all accept this recommendation on behalf of the people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
The President highlighted that this project reinforces his government’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure and fostering sustainable development. “The completion of this strategic project underscores our dedication to building a robust and resilient infrastructure that meets the needs of our growing population and stimulates economic growth,” Tinubu said. He also noted that the project created employment opportunities for over 1,500 Nigerians, aligning with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at creating job opportunities for the youth.
President Tinubu further elaborated on the broader vision that the project serves. “As we commission this road today, we must also recognize the broader vision that it serves. This project is a critical component of our administration’s comprehensive plan to transform the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) into a world-class city. It equally aligns with our broader objectives of improving urban infrastructure, promoting sustainable development, and ensuring that our cities are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the future,” he stated.
The President commended the efforts of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, the FCT Administration, the contractors, engineers, and all those who contributed to the completion of the project. “The efforts of the Minister and his team have brought to fruition a critical artery that will significantly enhance connectivity, reduce traffic congestion, and improve the quality of life for the residents of the FCT,” Tinubu remarked.
In his closing remarks, President Tinubu expressed his honor in commissioning the full-scope development of Arterial Road N20, stating, “On that note, ladies and gentlemen, it is my singular honor to commission the full-scope development of Arterial Road N20 from Northern Parkway to Outer Northern Expressway (ONEX) to the glory of the Almighty God and service to humanity.”
This new development not only pays tribute to one of Nigeria’s most distinguished cultural figures but also signifies a substantial step forward in the nation’s infrastructure and urban development goals. The road named after Prof. Wole Soyinka stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to improving the nation’s infrastructure and fostering sustainable growth. As Abuja continues to grow, projects like these are crucial for ensuring the city’s infrastructure keeps pace with its development needs.
