The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, announced that the FCT Administration is heavily investing in infrastructure to enhance the comfort of its residents.
Wike made this statement on Saturday in Abuja after inspecting the ongoing construction of an 11.1-kilometer expressway from Airport Road to Kuje.
“As a government, we are committed to providing basic infrastructure to make FCT residents comfortable. Whether it’s farming, going to the market, or sending children to school, we aim to ensure roads and schools are in excellent condition. Addressing hunger is also a priority,” he said.
He described the construction of the expressway as a significant project that will change the lives of Kuje residents by improving their connectivity to Abuja city. The project will also link Kuje with Airport Road and Gwagwalada through the Kuje township road, which is also under construction.
“This is a major road that the government is focused on. Although it was approved in 2022, funds were not available until now. We have secured the necessary funds and paid the contractor. It’s a critical project, and we are committed to ensuring it is not delayed due to funding issues,” Wike added.
Addressing the planned protest on August 1, the minister urged Kuje residents to be patient and give President Bola Tinubu time to address the country’s challenges.
“Hunger is a temporary issue, and we will overcome it. Those working with Gilmor construction are earning, so please remain calm. More opportunities will soon be available for others. Don’t be swayed by those who do not have Nigeria’s best interests at heart. The FCT is the heart of the country, and we must protect it. Protests should not occur here. I appeal to those considering joining the protest to withdraw and give us time to work,” he said.
He further urged residents to convince their friends against participating in the strike. “Abuja is for infrastructure development, not protests. Let’s maintain peace to enjoy the city,” Wike added.
Earlier, Mr. Ricard Daudu, Deputy Director of Engineering Services at the Federal Capital Development Authority, described the road linking Airport Road to Kuje as a crucial regional highway. He explained that the expressway, known as “FCT Road 105,” runs from the northern part of the FCT to the southern part, connecting to the southern highway that leads from Abaji to Toto and Ring Road II, which links to the Outer Northern Expressway (ONEX).
“Eventually, it will be a direct connection from ONEX down to Nasarawa state. The total length within the FCT is 76 kilometers, with 11.1 kilometers currently being developed into a 10-lane expressway. The current section under development has two main carriageways, and the service carriageway will be developed later,” Daudu explained.
