The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, on Friday commenced the construction of collector road C01 in the Institution and Research District, linking the Body of Benchers complex to Nile University.
The project is expected to ease vehicular movement within the corridor and benefit adjoining private institutions such as Baze University and Nile University.
Speaking during the ceremony, Wike reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to completing the project within the stipulated six-month timeframe, saying, “Let me assure you that if there is one road, if there is one project that will be completed within the time schedule, it is this particular project that will be completed.”
The Minister emphasised that the project was approved under emergency procurement, following an appeal by the Body of Benchers during its last Call to Bar ceremony.
According to him, the prompt response highlights President Tinubu’s support for national institutions and his dedication to infrastructural renewal.
“Mr. President said, it is not only the Body of Benchers. Yes, I’m happy contributing and supporting the legal profession and those agencies that are within the legal profession,” Wike said.
He further disclosed that construction of 300-bed hostels for male and female students at the Nigerian Law School, Bwari, would commence on Monday, as part of efforts to improve facilities at the institution.
“You also remember that last year, we flagged off the construction of 10 bungalows to be furnished for Nigerian Law School. That is almost completed, and Mr. President said whatever can be done to upgrade that institution should be done. That is the essence of the Renewed Hope Agenda,” the minister said.
Wike, who described the event as Day 17 of the ongoing project commissioning and commencement series, highlighted the importance of citizen collaboration and constructive criticism in governance.
“Good citizens should be able to carry out their own responsibility by calling government attention, not everything you go to social media,” he cautioned, while commending the Body of Benchers for their “responsible approach” in making developmental requests.
Wike, also addressed concerns about the Fire Service building, and assured stakeholders that the process was already underway and would be completed soon.
“Do not have sleepless nights, you can sleep with your two eyes closed,” he assured.
He further appealed to residents and institutions to acknowledge government efforts when projects are executed, noting that responsible feedback encourages accountability and continuity.
“If you begin to say the government is also doing something, even in my own university the road has been tarred, then you are becoming a good citizen—and that’s the duty of good citizens,” he said.
While reflecting on his interactions with the Body of Benchers, Wike revealed that their chairman had once appointed him to lead the Infrastructure Committee, which paved the way for the ongoing construction of an annex for the Body of Benchers.
He said, “This is the way to collaborate with government and get what you want. If you like, go 50 million times to social media, what you didn’t get through the door, you won’t get it through the window.”
The minister stressed continuity in governance and the collective responsibility of citizens to support national progress.
“Mr. President has never said he’s going to solve all the problems of Nigeria, but he’s going to put Nigeria on the path of positive development. As a minister, even if I stay here for 500 years, problems will continue to come up, but within the time and resources available, we will do our best to give our people what they deserve,” he added.
Leave a Comment