President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that nothing demonstrates a government’s seriousness more convincingly than the visible transformation of its cities — and modern infrastructure remains the loudest proof of purposeful leadership.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the official commissioning of the newly completed Connector Road CN-8, known as Asuquo Okon, and adjoining roads in Dakibiyu District on Tuesday, President Tinubu said that projects like these are more than concrete and steel — they are clear statements of vision, order, and dignity for Nigerians.
“There is no louder proof of a government’s seriousness than the modernization of its cities. Infrastructure is the most persuasive advertisement of leadership, of order, and of vision,” Tinubu stated. “A modern city inspires confidence, attracts investment, and restores the dignity of its people.”
Stretching from the bustling Arterial Road N-5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way in Jabi) to Arterial Road N-1 (Olusegun Obasanjo Way in Dakibiyu), the new road network breathes life into communities long deprived of critical links and unlocks fresh economic opportunities.
“For too long, inadequate infrastructure has choked the aspirations of these areas. Today, we tear down that wall. Shops will open, markets will thrive, congestion will ease, children will reach school faster, and emergency services will respond quicker,” he said, describing the milestone as Renewed Hope turned into visible reality.
President Tinubu stressed that his vision for Abuja extends far beyond its glittering city centre to its neglected margins. “Every road we build, every bridge we complete, every community we connect is a firm step towards a more inclusive, more equitable Nigeria,” he added.
He applauded FCT Minister Barr. Nyesom Wike for his energy and drive in delivering projects with speed and quality. “I must pay tribute to the Honourable Minister of the FCT, Barr. Nyesom Wike, whose sense of urgency in executing these projects is well known to Nigerians,” Tinubu said, assuring continued federal support for the FCT to deliver on its Renewed Hope promise.
Earlier, the FCT Minister, Barr. Wike, revealed how a search for a site for the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal led him to discover the appalling condition of the area’s roads. “Your Excellency, you can’t believe that as a city we could have such terrible, horrible roads,” he recalled.
With President Tinubu’s approval, the project received Federal Executive Council clearance in September last year and was flagged off in October. “Today, less than a year later, we are commissioning it — to the glory of God and for the service of the judiciary and the people,” Wike said, calling for continued presidential backing to sustain the capital’s transformation.
Echoing this commitment, FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the project as a clear sign that the Renewed Hope Agenda is yielding tangible results for communities across the FCT. “Today’s project is yet another testament to this administration’s unwavering commitment to infrastructural development and inclusive urban growth,” she said.
She expressed confidence that the new roads would ease movement, boost connectivity, and stimulate further social and economic development in the fast-growing district.
With projects like this, Abuja’s transformation is more than a promise it is fast becoming the strongest symbol of a government determined to build a modern capital that works for every citizen.
