Abuja: President Bola Tinubu has announced that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is prepared to welcome Mr. Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), should he decide to join the party. This declaration was made during the commissioning of Arterial Road N16 (Shehu Shagari Way), which connects Ring Road 1 (Nnamdi Azikiwe Way) to Arterial Road N20 (Wole Soyinka Way) in the Katampe District of Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the President’s spokesman, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, conveyed that the Wike-led FCT Administration successfully executed these infrastructure projects. President Tinubu praised Minister Wike for his dedication and teamwork in governance, noting that such collaboration is essential for effective leadership. He acknowledged the cooperation of traditional rulers and local communities in ensuring the smooth relocation of residents affected by the development.
President Tinubu expressed his admiration for Wike’s efforts in relocating the local communities peacefully and with fair compensation. He emphasized the importance of protecting and wisely using the new infrastructure. Despite Wike not being a member of the APC, Tinubu expressed readiness to welcome him should he choose to join the Progressives.
The President highlighted the significance of the newly completed road, stating that it affirms the government’s commitment to its Renewed Hope Agenda. He noted that the corridor had long been underdeveloped despite being part of the Abuja Master Plan, and that the new infrastructure would ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity in Central Abuja and surrounding districts.
President Tinubu reiterated the importance of infrastructure development for Nigeria’s growth and competitiveness, emphasizing investments in roads, rail, power, healthcare, education, and digital infrastructure as key to unlocking the nation’s potential. He affirmed his administration’s commitment to continuing development efforts despite political distractions.
Minister Wike, in his remarks, praised the President for restoring public trust in government and boosting contractor confidence, leading to accelerated infrastructure completion. He noted that the newly inaugurated road was a project initiated by the current administration and emphasized the competitive environment among contractors eager to undertake projects without initial government payments.
The Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Mr. Richard Dauda, provided technical details about the completed Arterial Road N16. The road integrates several districts, offering critical linkages for residents and commercial users. The comprehensive project includes an interchange with two bridges, a flyover, and a six-lane dual carriageway with modern infrastructure features.
The completion of this project marks a significant improvement in city connectivity and infrastructure, benefiting various districts and enhancing urban development in the Federal Capital Territory.