The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed the commitment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to deliver on infrastructure promises in the FCT, noting that the government is focused on projects that directly improve the lives of residents.
Speaking during the commencement of the construction of the main carriageways of the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) from Ring Road 1 to Ring Road 2 along Apo-Wassa Road, Wike recalled a pledge he made during the earlier commissioning of the Apo–Wassa Junction.
The minister noted that it’s a major project aimed at decongesting traffic and improving connectivity within the FCT.
“I do remember when we came to commission from the Apo junction down to Wassa junction. We made a promise that, by the grace of God, and with the support of His Excellency, Mr. President, we are going to dualize this particular road. That promise was made, and today, to the glory of God, we are fulfilling it,” Wike said.
He said that the Administration had also started plans to relocate Apo traders to a new site, and revealed that the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) had already submitted the cost estimates for providing infrastructure at the relocation site.
“We have received the cost of providing infrastructure from the Acting Executive Secretary of the FCDA. For us, every promise made by this administration, under the leadership of Mr. President, will be fulfilled,” he assured.
Wike emphasised the strategic importance of the Apo–Wassa corridor, and described it as one of the busiest routes in the city that has long caused traffic bottlenecks for commuters.
“You will agree with me that this road is very important. Before the Apo–Wassa junction was done, it took hours to drive into the city. It was horrible, but we are doing all we can to give the people of FCT the happiness they deserve,” he noted.
The Minister also commended the FCT Area Council Chairmen for their cooperation, regardless of party affiliation, describing their unity as unprecedented.
“It has never been done before. Whichever party you belong to, all of them have worked together to support this administration,” he said.
Wike dismissed speculations about his loyalty to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), saying those who once accused him of destabilizing the opposition have now joined the APC themselves.
“I’ve been watching on television and social media — people who said I wanted to destabilize the party, that I was working for APC. All of them are now in APC. This means if it is true, they should commend me for working for where they are heading to,” he said, adding that politics should be “for mature people.”
Wike went on to praise President Tinubu for what he described as “decisive and visionary leadership” that has restored financial stability to states and the FCT.
“When I was governor for eight years, I ran around banks to look for money to do projects. Sometimes, the money that came in monthly wasn’t even enough to pay salaries.
“But today, because of the leadership of somebody, a decisive leader, states and the FCT no longer run to banks. Instead, banks are now running after states, begging not to be abandoned. That is leadership,” he said.
According to Wike, Tinubu’s decision to end fuel subsidy was a difficult but necessary step that allowed governments across the federation to fund salaries and embark on projects.
“If Mr. President had not taken that decision, most states would not have been able to pay salaries today. In FCT too, it would have been difficult,” he said.
He urged Nigerians to look beyond party lines and recognize good governance when they see it.
“It doesn’t matter the party you belong to; the truth must be told. When you see good leadership, you say it. That is what this country needs now, visionary, purposeful leadership,” Wike declared.
The Minister credited President Tinubu’s leadership for the renewed wave of infrastructure projects transforming the FCT, saying,
“Whatever we are seeing today in FCT is as a result of the purposeful leadership of Mr. President. Once you set a standard, those you appoint must follow suit.”
Wike also expressed appreciation to former Super Eagles captain, Joseph Yobo, who joined the event, acknowledging his support for the administration’s efforts to engage youths in nation-building.
In her vote of thanks, the FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the project as a bold step toward easing traffic flow, stimulating economic activities, and improving mobility for residents.
“The leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu constantly reminds us that progress is built not only through policy but in the visible transformation of lives and communities,” she said.
Mahmoud commended Wike for his “unwavering energy, foresight, and passion” in driving infrastructure renewal across the capital city.
“Under your watch, the FCT has truly become a construction powerhouse and a beacon of national renewal,” she added.
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