Dualisation of Apo–Wasa Road in Abuja
Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has officially commenced the dualisation of the main carriageway of the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX), stretching from the Ring Road I Junction to Ring Road II—a move aimed at easing the heavy traffic along the Apo–Wasa axis.
At the inauguration ceremony held Wednesday in Abuja, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike described the project as critical to solving long-standing traffic challenges for commuters heading into the city centre from surrounding suburbs.
“You will agree with me that this road is very, very important,” Wike told journalists and stakeholders. “In fact, before the Apo to Wasa service lane was constructed, you can only imagine how many hours it took just to get into the city. It was very horrible, but I thank God we are trying to do all we can to give the people of FCT the happiness that they desire.”
Wike attributed the renewed push for infrastructure in the FCT to the fiscal policies and leadership style of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly the controversial yet impactful removal of fuel subsidy.
According to the minister, the extra funds made available by ending the subsidy regime have enabled not only the FCT but also state governments to meet their financial obligations and embark on meaningful projects.
“If Mr. President did not take that decisive decision to end the subsidy, most states wouldn’t have been able to pay salaries,” Wike said. “It would have been difficult even for the FCT. But today, every state now has money—not only to pay salaries and run government but also to embark on projects.”
He added that Tinubu’s leadership has proven to be both purposeful and visionary—just what the country needs at a time like this.
Touching on the planned resettlement of mechanics and artisans currently operating along the expressway corridor, Wike said arrangements have reached an advanced stage. He noted that the cost breakdown for necessary infrastructure at their new permanent site in Wasa has already been submitted by the acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA).
“So for us, every promise made by this administration under the leadership of Mr. President, be assured that we shall fulfill the promise to the residents of the FCT,” he stated.
Also speaking at the event, FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the dualisation project as a strategic effort to improve mobility, boost economic activity, and enhance the quality of life across the territory.
“Tinubu’s leadership constantly reminds us that progress is built not only in policy but in the visible transformation of lives and communities,” Mahmoud said.
The project is part of a broader push by the FCTA to decongest key traffic routes and accelerate infrastructure development across Nigeria’s capital city.
NAN
