Wike sets June 2026 deadline for completion of Abuja

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

The long-delayed Abuja–Kuje Road is now scheduled to be completed by June 2026, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, announced this on Tuesday after years of setbacks.

During an inspection of the construction in Kuje Area Council, Wike stated that the contractor, Arab Contractors, has pledged to meet the new deadline, with the FCTA fulfilling its responsibilities to keep the project progressing. “We are very impressed with the level of work and the quality of job being carried out by Arab Contractors,” he said. “They have promised to keep to their agreement, and by the grace of God, June next year they will hand over that road. It is a very major milestone.”

He reflected on the history of the project, noting that the contract was initially awarded in 2019 but stalled due to the COVID-19 pandemic until the present administration took action. “When we came on board, the contractor was not on site,” he said. “During our interaction with stakeholders, one of the major requests was the return of the contractors. Today, the residents are happy, and we are also happy with the progress.”

Wike also reviewed progress on the dualisation of the Kuje–Gwagwalada Road by Gilmore Engineering, which is continuing from where it previously left off. “The work is going on very well,” he added. “If we keep to our own promise, 70% to 80% of the job will be completed within the scheduled time.”

Emphasising their significance, he noted that these roads are crucial for the FCT’s internal connectivity and economic development. “These are very important roads. Someone from Kuje going to Gwagwalada does not need to pass through the Airport Road again,” Wike said. “These two major projects will change the economic life and activities of this area and of the FCT in general.”