The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has hailed the speed of critical road construction in Abuja and expressed confidence that at least 10 completed projects will be inaugurated before the end of the year.
Wike made the remarks on Wednesday during an inspection tour of ongoing projects, including the Tungan Madaki to Zuba Road and the dual carriageway from Nile University to Ring Road III.
The minister described the Nile University to Ring Road III corridor as a “vital thoroughfare” expected to open up the FCT’s Institutions and Research District and ease chronic traffic congestion in the area.
“The completion of the Nile University to Ring Road III will mark a major turning point for the territory, transforming the socio-economic landscape and giving a massive boost to the research and academic ecosystem,” he said.
Wike reaffirmed the FCT Administration’s commitment to delivering high-impact road networks and bridge connections aimed at improving urban mobility and driving economic growth. He noted that the inspection forms part of routine monitoring to ensure contractors adhere to delivery timelines ahead of the upcoming general elections.
At the Tungan Madaki to Zuba Road, the minister inspected drainage and bridge works designed to prevent seasonal flooding and improve inter-district movement. He commended the contractor for rapid progress, noting that five of the six major culverts scheduled for the route have already been completed.
Wike particularly praised the primary contractor, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), for maintaining momentum despite financial constraints. According to him, the FCT Administration has only mobilised 30 per cent of the total project value, yet CCECC has continued with its own resources and technical capacity.
“We’ll not take it for granted that they’re committed to the realisation of the project. We’ll do our own part to pay them their money. We’ll do that,” the minister assured, promising prompt release of funds to offset outstanding balances.
He called on other corporate bodies and government contractors to emulate CCECC’s “civic responsibility” and urged private developers to support infrastructural renewal in the FCT.
Expressing confidence in CCECC’s expertise and equipment, Wike said the company’s track record leaves “no doubt about their ability to deliver world-class infrastructure.”
The minister added that the inspection tour will continue in the coming days, with a target of delivering a minimum of 10 projects for official inauguration before year-end.
