FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike
Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has pledged timely completion of critical road infrastructure projects aimed at transforming urban and satellite areas of Abuja.
Speaking during an inspection tour on Saturday, Wike expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of ongoing works, particularly on the Wuye-Ring Road II link and the dual carriageway from Airport Road to Kuje.
He reassured residents that the Airport–Kuje road—designed as an eight-lane expressway—would be completed ahead of President Bola Tinubu’s third anniversary in office.
> “By the time this road is commissioned, which is not less than eight lanes, it won’t take 15 to 20 minutes to reach the city centre,” Wike said.
> “That means residents of Kuje no longer need to relocate to the city before enjoying urban living. That is what development and the Renewed Hope Agenda are all about.”
The minister applauded the contractors, Arab Contractors Nigeria Ltd., for delivering high-quality work and noted significant progress in rock blasting and terrain shaping.
Beyond roadworks, Wike also touched on wider urban renewal priorities, including security enhancement and waste management across the capital and its surrounding towns.
He pointed to the ongoing “Light Up Abuja” project as both an aesthetic and safety initiative.
> “Light Up Abuja is not just to beautify the city but also to enhance security,” he explained.
“Security challenges happen everywhere—even in developed countries like the U.S. But Abuja has been relatively safe, and security agencies deserve credit.”
While acknowledging occasional security incidents, Wike insisted that Abuja remains one of Nigeria’s safest cities.
On the issue of waste disposal, the minister voiced dissatisfaction with the current state of refuse management, particularly along Airport Road and the Nyanya-Karshi corridor.
He revealed plans to overhaul the waste collection system, with a new contract set to be awarded within two weeks.
> “We will no longer allow political contractors without capacity to handle such an important service,” Wike declared.
“Only competent contractors will be engaged moving forward.”
Residents in satellite areas also raised concerns about deteriorating roads, especially in Federal Housing Estates.
Wike responded by restating his administration’s commitment to balanced development across all six area councils.
> “Infrastructure renewal, better urban services, and attention to neglected communities remain top priorities for the FCT Administration,” he said.
With multiple infrastructure projects underway and renewed focus on service delivery, Wike’s message to FCT residents was clear: better days are ahead.
NAN
