From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, conducted a thorough inspection of several ongoing road construction projects in the nation’s capital on Thursday, reaffirming his commitment to enhancing infrastructure under President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.”
The visit was part of Wike’s broader initiative to improve connectivity and living conditions for residents in both urban and satellite towns.
One of the highlights of Wike’s inspection was the ongoing construction of the 10-kilometre Gwagwalada Market Road. The critical route connects the Palace of Agoma, the traditional ruler of Gwagwalada, and Radio Nigeria. The road has been in a deplorable state for years, prompting its flag-off last month.
During his visit, Wike expressed enthusiasm about the project’s potential impact on local commerce and community life. “You can see the joy of the residents… they can feel that there is a government working for them,” he stated, pointing out the positive feedback from local traders and residents who have long awaited improvements to this vital infrastructure.
Wike’s inspection also included other significant projects, such as the rehabilitation of the 5-kilometre Dutse/Usuma Dam Road and the reconstruction of the 25-kilometre Kwaita/Yebu Road in Kwali Area Council.
He emphasised that these projects are not just about road construction but are integral to enhancing economic activities in the region. “What amazes me is the length of these roads… they will positively impact these communities,” he remarked.
The minister highlighted that improved roads would facilitate better access for farmers to transport their goods to markets, ultimately contributing to food security in Abuja. “We are trying to improve to make sure that things will not be bad today or worse tomorrow,” he added.
Wike assured that adequate funding would be allocated to contractors to ensure timely project completion. “When you see committed contractors, you will also carry out your own obligation by ensuring that they are funded to complete these roads,” he stated.
Wike expressed confidence in the quality of work being done despite challenges posed by heavy rains earlier in the year.
The minister also addressed concerns regarding street lighting along rural roads, which he had previously promised would accompany road improvements. “I asked the coordinator about the street lights… they are already working on that,” Wike explained. While he noted that completion might extend into January due to additional work requirements, he remained optimistic about meeting community needs.
Wike’s visit was met with enthusiasm from local residents, many of whom gathered to express their appreciation for the ongoing projects. “Nobody that sees good things will not appreciate it,” he remarked, emphasising that tangible improvements have rekindled hope among citizens who previously felt neglected by government initiatives.
On his collaboration with area council chairmen, Wike noted their support has been crucial in ensuring smooth project execution. “The council chairmen are working in tandem with us… they are fully bought into the project and own it as their own,” he said.
Amidst ongoing criticism regarding government policies and economic challenges faced by citizens, Wike defended the administration’s approach.
He acknowledged public frustration over rising commodity prices but argued that infrastructure development is key to alleviating such issues. “If there was no road, why would the price of goods not go high? By the time these roads are completed… it will reduce,” he asserted.
He said he remains confident that by the end of his tenure, residents will witness significant changes in their daily lives. “Before this administration ends this first tenure, you will see that Nigerians will also say, indeed, things have really changed,” he promised.