JamzNG Latest News, Gist, Entertainment in Nigeria
President Bola Tinubu has commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for what he described as the delivery of outstanding infrastructure projects across Abuja, stating that the minister has justified the trust reposed in him since his appointment.
The President spoke on Friday at the inauguration of the newly completed CN2 Collector Road, named Emmanuel Okanla Boulevard, alongside other infrastructure projects in the Katampe District of the Federal Capital Territory.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu said Wike remains focused on transforming Abuja into a modern capital and has consistently demonstrated a results-oriented approach to governance.
“When I gave him the task of making Abuja a true capital, I knew his track record. Wike, you did not disappoint Mr President. I will not disappoint you.”
“From turning abandoned roads into new highways, to implementing clean water projects and judicial offices, you work day and night. You don’t give excuses; you deliver results. The people of the FCT call you ‘Mr Project’ for a reason,” said the president.
The award comes as the Federal Capital Territory Administration continues a series of project inaugurations across the nation’s capital, showcasing the infrastructure that has been completed under the current administration.
Also read: The court sentenced terrorist Kipin’s mother and sister to 40 years in prison each for helping the rebellion
Tinubu described the Katampe road project as a practical demonstration of government’s commitment to delivering real benefits to the community through strategic investment in infrastructure.
He also mentioned the implementation of solar-powered street lighting on all major roads in Abuja, and stated that this initiative has improved public safety while stimulating economic and social activities after dark.
“We have installed solar street lights, and today Katampe is brightly lit at night. Abuja city life is back to normal, and criminal hideouts are disappearing. This is what good governance brings: security, mobility and dignity,” Tinubu said.
According to the President, this project represents more than just a transport corridor, and described it as a symbol of progress and proof that the government’s New Hope Agenda is producing real results.
While addressing guests at the event, Wike explained that the road project arose out of the need to bridge critical gaps in the county road network following the completion of infrastructure projects in the vicinity.
“Last year, when the President inaugurated the Gishiri road and the bridge connecting Maitama, this road didn’t even exist. We identified the missing link and immediately moved to address it because infrastructure must be holistic,” he said.
The minister said the development has started to attract private investment and increase real estate activity in the region.
“People say there is nothing happening in Nigeria, but when you look around Abuja and see construction sites everywhere, new buildings popping up every day and the business world investing heavily, the evidence speaks for itself,” he said.
Wike stated that infrastructure development remained critical for economic growth, job creation and improved quality of life, adding that ongoing projects in the FCT had created opportunities for thousands of residents.
He noted that the government is also prioritizing development in rural communities and satellite areas, citing a recently completed road connecting several settlements in the Tungan-Madaki axis.
“For the first time, many in these communities are experiencing the true meaning of government presence. We are connecting communities to opportunities, schools, health services and economic activity,” he said.
The minister further announced that another major infrastructure project will be implemented on Monday, with the inauguration of a new water supply scheme in Karu designed to improve access to drinking water for residents of satellite towns.
In her remarks, FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, said the project reflects the government’s broader vision of using infrastructure as a catalyst for economic development, social inclusion and improving living conditions.
He expressed appreciation to President Tinubu, the National Assembly, Wike, project contractors, engineers and community stakeholders for their role in ensuring the successful completion of the road.
Previously, Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority, Richard Dauda, revealed that the project consists of a 3.9-kilometer road network equipped with underground drainage systems, water and waste pipe networks, telecommunication lines, pedestrian paths, green areas and solar-powered street lighting.
Dauda said the road will significantly improve movement between Katampe, Mabushi, Jahi, Maitama and surrounding districts while opening up additional opportunities for residential and commercial expansion within the capital.
