The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed the administration’s resolve to deliver critical infrastructure in the nation’s capital while ensuring fairness and justice for affected residents.
Speaking during the commissioning of the first phase of a key road project in Abuja on Thursday, Wike praised President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, disclosing that the road contract had been awarded since September last year by the Federal Executive Council and flagged off in October.
“Your Excellency, Mr. President, it interests me to note that this award was awarded by the Federal Executive Council sometime since September last year, but was flagged off in October last year. The award was in two phases. Today, we are commissioning the first phase, and by the grace of God, the phase two will be commissioned before the end of the year,” Wike announced.
He also highlighted the administration’s decisive intervention in resolving disputes over compensation, especially for non-indigenous residents affected by the project. Wike recounted how the project nearly stalled due to disagreements, but the government insisted on equitable treatment.
“Somebody is living here in his house and you want to bring his house down and you say you are not going to pay compensation because he is not an indigene? I said no. Not under this administration of President Tinubu.” Wike said to loud applause.
The Minister revealed his initial unfamiliarity with the area until the project documents reached his desk. True to his hands-on approach, he inspected the site to ensure work proceeded according to plan.
Wike further disclosed that negotiations are ongoing with nearby communities to extend the road to the airport, pledging that their compensation would be paid without discrimination.
He commended contractors for their commitment to timely delivery, noting that assurances had been given to complete the second phase in time for President Tinubu’s administration’s second anniversary.
The FCT Minister concluded by pledging to push forward until the road connects with the airport via the ring road, describing it as a vital link that would ease movement and enhance the capital’s infrastructure network.
