The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has shared President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to transforming Abuja’s transport system and road network.
Wike said the President is focused on launching the metro line and repairing neglected roads to enhance the city’s infrastructure.
“When we were appointed, Mr. President told me, ‘I want the metro line. I want to ride on the metro line,’” Wike revealed. He stressed that a city like Abuja must have a reliable train service to help people travel from rural areas to the city for work and return to their communities easily.
The minister praised Tinubu for not only voicing his intentions but also backing them with the necessary financial support.
“I thank Mr. President for not only saying that he wants that metro station to be operational, but by giving the support, the necessary support. If the funds are not made available, it would not have been possible for us to do the metro line to be operational,” he said.
“So thank Mr. President by backing his words with action. That’s what is called leadership,” he added.
Wike also pointed out the poor state of roads in Abuja.
“It’s most unfortunate that when you come to Abuja, every road or virtually all roads have been abandoned.” He explained that the President has directed the government to address these issues, ensuring that the entire city is properly maintained.
The minister noted that residents now trust the government enough to report issues.
“People send messages to highlight streets that need attention, including one near my house,” he said.
Wike mentioned that he was recently alerted to the poor condition of Area One in Garki.
“As I was coming in, I told my ADC that on Saturday, we must go to area one and see how bad the place is. And I can assure you, we’ll take action because no part of Abuja in the city should be seen to be looking different from the other parts of the city. And so Mr. President has said, everywhere in the city must have good road network,” he said.
Wike emphasised that no part of Abuja should be left in disrepair. “At least anybody who comes here will know that, yes, indeed, this is the city of the great country, of the biggest country in Africa,” he said.