How Road Projects By Wike’s Administration Are Transforming Abuja

Several ongoing major road projects by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr Nyesom Wike, has underscored a bold vision to transform transportation, connectivity, and enhance urban living across Abuja.

From Jahi to Karsana, and from the Airport–Kuje corridor to Gwagwalada among others, the projects are set to redefine how residents move, work, and live within and around the capital city.

Some of the projects include the extension of Arterial N16 from RR2 to RR3 by CBC Global; the access road to the Renewed Hope Estate in Karsana District by Ubrik Construction Company Ltd; Highway FCT 105 from Airport Road to Kuje by Arab Contractors; and the Kuje–Gwagwalada road by Gilmor Engineering Ltd.

During an inspection tour, the minister expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work, particularly in Karsana, where new road networks are being constructed to connect the Renewed Hope Cities with Kubwa.

According to the Minister, the project, handled by Lubrik Construction Company, is on track for completion and inauguration to mark the third anniversary of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

He described the progress as encouraging, noting that improved connectivity in the area would open up new residential and economic opportunities.

At Jahi, focus is on the N16 interchange linking Jahi to Gwarinpa, an important infrastructure expected to ease traffic congestion and enhance inter-district mobility.

The minister commended the quality of job and contractor’s commitment, revealing that the project scheduled for delivery by the end of May aligns with the broader Renewed Hope agenda.

Equally significant is the Airport Road to Kuje project, being executed by Arab Contractors which has reached a critical stage with the installation of the final bridge beam.

The Airport Kuje road once completed, will provide a direct route to Kuje Area Council and surrounding communities.

Wike noted that the improved access would reduce pressure on city housing, as workers could conveniently commute from Kuje to the central Abuja, fostering suburban growth and decongestion.

The minister also inspected the 13-kilometre road linking Kuje to Gwagwalada, handled by Gilmore Construction.

The project is divided into two segments, with the first phase spanning approximately 6.5 kilometres, expected to be completed by May, while work continues on the second phase.

According to Mr Wike, the road projects would positively impact on local communities, trade, and regional integration.

According to Wike, a functional transport system depends on strong connectivity and a well-developed road network.

He added that the ongoing projects are not just about roads but about building a modern, efficient, and accessible capital city that meets the needs of its growing population.

Beyond infrastructure, Wike in Guzape, warned against violation of land use approvals, stressing that violations such as converting Green Area or Recreational park to a Residential Estate could attract revocation of the land title.

“The government would not tolerate abuse of land use regulations”We will not allow that .This place was given as a green area. But from what you have seen now, they wanted to develop it to an estate, which is a violation.”

The Minister also raised concerns that there is a likelihood that some FCTA/FCDA staff are compromising with developers to carry out illegal developments, but insisted that enforcement would continue without fear or favour, irrespective of those involved.

“Let us not pretend, all of us know. An armed robber cannot go to a place where there are no people linking the armed robber…For example, for the Development Control to give you approval of building, you must show ownership, and that ownership is C-of-O. We found out that there is no C-of-O. How did they approve the building? “Wike asked.

“So these are the kind of problems. You have multifaceted problems that you don’t know where to start from. But that should not deter us. We are going to do what we think is right, and we are not going to look away because of the fact that civil servants are involved.”

With completion timelines drawing near, residents and stakeholders alike are optimistic that these projects will significantly improve mobility, reduce travel time, and unlock new economic corridors across Abuja and its satellite towns.

Remi Johnson, Edited By Grace Namiji