…………Lauds Wike’s urgency in execution of projects.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said that a functional capital city is the foundation upon which a functioning nation is built, noting that the ongoing infrastructure development across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is a testament to his administration’s commitment to building an inclusive and thriving Nigeria.
According to him, nothing could be a louder proof of the seriousness of a government than the decision to modernise its cities, adding that “when a city works, when its roads are paved, when its lights stay on, and when its arteries flow without congestion, it tells the world that its government is not just present but purposeful.”
President Tinubu, who spoke on Tuesday when he commissioned the Collector Road CN8 (Asuquo Okon Way) and other connecting roads in Dakibiyu District, Abuja, assured that the dividends of the road projects were immediate and enduring.
Represented by his deputy, Vice President Kashim Shettima, the President said, “Commutes will shorten. Congestion will ease. And, most crucially, livelihoods will flourish. Shops will open. Markets will thrive. Children will reach school faster. Emergency services will arrive quicker.
“This is what we mean when we speak of Renewed Hope. Not lofty rhetoric but practical impact. Not policy for the sake of politics, but policy translated into progress. This is Renewed Hope poured into concrete and paved across kilometres”.
The Nigerian leader pointed out that while inadequate infrastructure had choked the aspirations of these areas, the commissioning of the roads would breathe life into communities that had been waiting to be seen and served.
“Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, our vision for Abuja is not limited to its glittering centre. We are equally committed to its outskirts, to its margins, to its hidden corners where dreams often struggle to breathe.
“Every road we build, every bridge we complete, every community we connect is a firm step towards a more inclusive, more equitable Nigeria,” he noted, maintaining that “the roads are a bold signature of the administration’s commitment to urban renewal and economic revitalisation.”
President Tinubu further observed that a modern and functional city “inspires confidence, attracts investment, and most importantly, restores the dignity of those who call it home,” even as he said a nation’s capital that is functional serves as the foundation upon which a functioning country is built.
“That is why today’s occasion is not just about commissioning a road. It is a grand reassurance that cities must work for their people and that a functioning capital is the foundation upon which a functioning nation is built.
“The capital of this great nation must reflect the strength and dignity of all who call it home. We are determined to ensure that development knows no postcode, that governance does not discriminate, and that the dignity of our citizens is not defined by their geography,” he maintained.
The President paid glowing tribute to the Minister of FCT, Barrister Nyesom Wike, and his team at the FCTA over what he described as their outstanding work, stating that the Minister’s “sense of urgency in the execution of these projects is well known to Nigerians.
“Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, this administration remains steadfast in its support for the FCTA. We will continue to provide the resources, policy backing, and institutional cooperation needed to ensure that projects like these are delivered on time and to the highest standards. Our goal is to build a capital that works for everyone,” he added.
The newly commissioned roads connect the Police Service Commission Headquarters, FCT High Court Jabi, Code of Conduct Tribunal Headquarters, the new FCT Division of the Court of Appeal, the Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology and many other important public and private institutions and residences.
Earlier in his remarks, the FCT Minister, Wike, stated that the day’s commissioning of the roads marked the 14th day in a series of project commissionings initiated by the FCT administration.
“When we wanted to find land for the construction of the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal, I was told by the director of lands that there was a space in this area. I came to inspect the land, but Your Excellency, you cannot believe that as a city, we could have such a terrible and horrible road.
“Through the Federal Executive Council and by your support, this project was awarded last September, and we flagged it off in October. Today, we are commissioning it. I wanted your support and continue to solicit more support,” the Minister said.
Also, Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmud, thanked President Tinubu for his continued support to the Federal Capital Territory Administration and his inclusive urban growth in the FCT and the nation at large.
“We thank the Vice President for his continued support and steadfast commitment to the development of the nation; the FCT Minister and the entire FCT staff members, the engineers, contractors and every other person that has contributed to the success of this project,” she said.
Signed
Stanley Nkwocha
Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media & Communications
(Office of The Vice President)
1st July, 2025
