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Tinubu Commissions Key Abuja Expressway to Decongest City, Drive Investment

Toyin Adebayo
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Tinubu Commissions Key Abuja Expressway to Decongest City, Drive Investment

As traffic pressure and population growth intensify across Nigeria’s capital, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said that road infrastructure is designed to decongest Abuja’s road network and unlock economic potential.

Represented by Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, President Tinubu on Tuesday inaugurated the newly completed right-hand service carriageway of the Inner Northern Expressway (INEX), linking Route 3 to the Murtala Mohammed Expressway.

“It is with great pride and fulfillment I stand before you today to commission this project,” he said while delivering the President’s remarks. “This road is more than concrete and asphalt it is a symbol of progress and a cornerstone of our infrastructure renewal agenda.”

The President described the project as a critical component of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Master Plan, aimed at easing congestion, enhancing connectivity, and improving urban mobility for millions of residents and businesses.

He praised the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, for his leadership and swift delivery of the project, saying the minister’s vision is helping shape a more livable and future-ready city.

“You have contributed to something larger than a roadway you’ve contributed to the future of our capital,” Tinubu noted.

The expressway is expected to improve traffic flow, reduce travel time, and open up access to housing, commerce, and investment opportunities in adjoining districts.

“This road will not only decongest key junctions but also facilitate safer, faster movement within Abuja’s transportation corridors,” the President said. “It is a direct boost to economic activity and quality of life.”

Reaffirming his administration’s broader commitment to infrastructure-driven development, Tinubu said similar projects will be replicated across all regions of the country.

“We are determined to replicate these successes in every part of Nigeria roads, bridges, railways and more ensuring that no region is left behind.”

He also appealed to residents to protect the infrastructure and use it responsibly.

“Obey traffic rules and safeguard public assets. These roads belong to all of us and future generations,” Tinubu advised.

Earlier, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s commitment to infrastructural renewal as he commissioned the 16-kilometre Idu-Zuba Expressway a long-abandoned project now completed at a revised cost of N31 billion.

According to him, the road, initially awarded in 2014 at N7 billion but stalled for over a decade, was delivered under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Wike said the project was revived and fast-tracked because of the President’s resolve to complete critical infrastructure that has direct economic impact.

“This project was awarded in 2014 for N7 billion, and 11 years later it is finally completed at N31 billion. If we had committed just N500 million monthly from our IGR, this could have been finished in a year. That’s simple arithmetic,” Wike said.

Area Council Polls: Show Your Scorecard, Wike Tells Political Opponents at Idu-Zuba Road Commissioning

Toyin Adebayo
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Area Council Polls: Show Your Scorecard, Wike Tells Political Opponents at Idu-Zuba Road Commissioning

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, has dared political aspirants eyeing seats in the upcoming Area Council elections to show tangible evidence of development, warning that only those with real achievements can win the people’s trust.

Wike issued the challenge on Tuesday while commissioning the newly completed 16-kilometre Idu-Zuba Expressway a project first awarded in 2014 but stalled for years and now delivered at a revised cost of N31 billion under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“We will show roads, bus terminals, and schools. The work we’ve done is our campaign. The project is the rigging when you give the people what they want, the result is clear,” Wike declared.

The Minister said the Idu-Zuba road, once neglected, is now a key artery for industrial and economic expansion in Abuja, particularly with its direct access to the Idu Industrial Park, which he said could create over 40,000 direct jobs if fully operational.

“This is Abuja’s industrial hub. But for years, companies couldn’t move forward because they had no C-of-O. When we came in and saw the setback, we issued the certificates in two weeks. Today, activities have resumed,” he said.

Wike criticised past delays in the project’s execution, noting that with steady funding from Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), the road could have been completed in just one year.

“If N500 million was paid monthly from IGR, this would’ve been done in a year. But it dragged for 11 years. That’s unacceptable,” he said.

He also revealed that the contractor has offered to complete the left-hand side of the expressway if the federal government provides tax concessions a proposal already sent to the Ministry of Finance for consideration.

Wike further raised concerns about bureaucratic bottlenecks, such as the years-long delay in approving the contractor’s request to cross the railway line for project completion.

“No investor will come if basic infrastructure is lacking. It’s our duty as government to create the enabling environment,” the Minister emphasized.

He lauded President Tinubu for his commitment to infrastructure renewal, noting that within just 10 days, the President and his representatives have commissioned 10 major projects across the FCT.

“Mr. President has come five times himself and delegated the Senate President, Speaker, and Deputy Senate President on other occasions. That’s real leadership,” Wike said.

Using a local proverb, Wike attributed the success of the FCT projects to strong presidential support.

“When you see a monkey jumping from tree to tree, it’s because the trees are close. If the trees are far apart, the monkey falls. We’re achieving results because Mr. President is backing us,” he quipped.

The completion of the Idu-Zuba Expressway is expected to ease traffic congestion, enhance access to industrial areas, and boost inclusive development across Abuja and its satellite town reinforcing the Tinubu administration’s focus on infrastructure-led transformation.

Wike Hails Tinubu as Rural Transformer, Says Over 150km of Roads Delivered in Satellite Towns

Toyin Adebayo
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Wike Hails Tinubu as Rural Transformer, Says Over 150km of Roads Delivered in Satellite Towns

…Minister lists completed projects across six FCT area councils, calls for real farmers to boost food security

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has declared President Bola Ahmed Tinubu a true champion of rural development, revealing that over 150 kilometers of roads have been constructed and commissioned in the FCT’s satellite towns since May 2023.

Wike made the remarks on Saturday during the commissioning of the newly completed A2 Junction–Pai Town Road, a project he described as one of the most significant among several infrastructure interventions carried out under Tinubu’s administration.

“Today, of all the commissions, this one, for me, I consider very, very important,” Wike said.
“I recall telling Mr. President it would be great if he could visit just one of the rural roads and see how joyous the people would be. If you look opposite you today, you will see that the people are very, very, very happy.”

The Minister explained that the construction of the Pai-Gomani axis became critical when the road beyond Pai was already under construction. He thanked the contractor for completing the stretch in time to mark the President’s second year in office, and announced that the next phase from Gomani to Yangoji (13 km) is set to begin.

Wike, who gave a detailed breakdown of completed rural road projects under President Tinubu’s watch, said:

“When we were appointed in August 2023, in your supplementary budget, you approved our request for emergency roads. You provided funds, and today I want to inform you that all six emergency roads across the six area councils have been commissioned.”

The six completed roads include: Paikon Kore–Ibwa Road (9 km) in Gwagwalada; Gaba–Tokulo Road with bridge in Bwari Area Council; Garage Junction–U.S. Secretariat Road (5 km) in Kuje; Yangoji–Sukuku–Ebo Road (11 km) in Kwali; Saburi 1 & 2 Access Road (5 km) in AMAC; and A2 Junction–Pai Town Road in Kwali Area Council

He further announced upcoming projects for this year’s commissioning, including: 10 km Aguma Palace–Radio–New Market Road in Gwagwalada; 18 km Nyanya–Karshi Dual Carriageway; 7.4 km Old Ushafa Road and rehabilitation of Lower Usuma Dam; and 16.4 km Dualisation from Ushafa War College to Kaduna Checkpoint

“When you calculate all the completed and ongoing roads in the satellite towns, you have done not less than 150 kilometers. People should not think everything happens only in the city,” Wike emphasized.

He linked the rural road network to security and food security, stating that inaccessible rural areas are no longer vulnerable due to improved infrastructure.

“Assuming there is a crime, how would the police enter here before? It was not possible. But with these roads, we are opening up rural communities for prosperity and peace,” he said.

On agriculture, the Minister urged genuine farmers to take advantage of available farmlands, promising government compensation and support.

“We are willing to pay compensation to communities and give land to real farmers not political farmers who will sit on land and speculate. We want to solve food problems, and your support has given us the ability to act.”

Wike expressed deep gratitude to President Tinubu for trusting him with the responsibility and backing him with resources and political will to execute.

“You can give someone an appointment, but if you don’t give him support, he can’t succeed. You have given us both appointment and support, and we are grateful,” he said.
“When the people are happy, you will be happy. And I’m sure as you leave here today, you will be very, very happy even when you get to the Villa.”

The event, which drew applause from community leaders and residents, is part of a series of project inaugurations marking President Tinubu’s second year in office.

Tinubu: We’re Turning Rural Challenges into Gateways for Prosperity

Toyin Adebayo
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Tinubu: We’re Turning Rural Challenges into Gateways for Prosperity

…Commissions A2–Pia Road, Lauds Wike’s Rural Projects, Pledges More Inclusive Development

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to transform Nigeria’s rural communities into vibrant hubs of prosperity through sustained infrastructure development and agricultural expansion.

Speaking on Monday at the official commissioning of the newly constructed 15-kilometre A2 Junction–Pia Town Road in Kwali Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the President described the project as a game-changer for rural connectivity and economic revitalization.

“Rural communities such as Pia contribute immensely to Nigeria’s economy, particularly in agriculture and local enterprises,” Tinubu said. “But for too long, they have suffered isolation and neglect. Today, that narrative is changing.”

He stressed that infrastructure projects must not be limited to urban centres, but should be deliberately targeted at improving the livelihoods of rural dwellers.

“The road and infrastructure development are meaningless if we don’t develop them for the benefit of our people. This project will elevate lives as we continue to prioritize infrastructure development across all zones.”

The President also used the occasion to call for the establishment of ranches and grazing corridors, pointing to their role in ending conflicts and improving food production.

“I observed the need for our great farmers and livestock owners to establish grazing opportunities. We will help you. We will work with you. What used to be a source of conflict can now become a channel of prosperity,” he said.

Addressing the residents directly, Tinubu urged the Pia community to take full ownership of the new infrastructure.

“This is your road. Guard it. Maintain it. Let it serve as a bridge to a better life for your youth, farmers, traders, and students.”

He commended the contractors for their professionalism and high-quality delivery, describing them as vital partners in Nigeria’s development agenda. The President also assured citizens that rural development would remain a key pillar of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“We will ensure development is not lopsided. It will be inclusive, balanced, and focused on lifting lives. Every Nigerian must feel the touch of meaningful governance,” Tinubu concluded.

Earlier in his remarks, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr. Nyesom Wike, described Tinubu as a “true champion of rural development,” revealing that more than 150 kilometers of roads have been constructed and commissioned in the FCT’s satellite towns since May 2023.

“Today, of all the projects commissioned, I consider this one very important,” Wike said. “I told Mr. President that visiting just one rural road would show how deeply the people appreciate his efforts. And if you look around today, you’ll see the joy in their faces.”

Wike recalled how the need to connect the Pai-Gomani axis became critical after construction had already commenced beyond Pai, making this particular stretch a priority. He confirmed that the next phase of the project Gomani to Yangoji (13 km) is already in the pipeline.

The Minister listed six emergency rural roads that were approved and funded under the President’s 2023 supplementary budget and have all been completed: Paikon Kore–Ibwa Road (9 km) – Gwagwalada Area Council; Gaba–Tokulo Road with bridge – Bwari Area Council; Garage Junction–U.S. Secretariat Road (5 km) – Kuje Area Council; Yangoji–Sukuku–Ebo Road (11 km) – Kwali Area Council; Saburi 1 and 2 Access Road (5 km) – AMAC; and A2 Junction–Pai Town Road – Kwali Area Council

Wike also announced upcoming projects for the 2024 commissioning calendar, including:10 km Aguma Palace–Radio–New Market Road – Gwagwalada; 18 km Nyanya–Karshi Dual Carriageway; 7.4 km Old Ushafa Road and rehabilitation of Lower Usuma Dam; and 16.4 km Dualisation of Ushafa War College–Kaduna Checkpoint Road

“We’ve opened up communities that were once inaccessible. These roads don’t just connect places — they improve security, open economic opportunities, and pave the way for real farmers, not speculators, to thrive,” Wike said.

He thanked President Tinubu for the unwavering support that has made such progress possible.

“You gave us the appointment, but more importantly, you gave us the backing. Without that, none of this would be possible,” he said.
“When the people are happy, you are happy. And today, I’m certain you will leave here very, very happy even when you get back to the Villa.”

The ceremony was attended by government officials, traditional rulers, and hundreds of jubilant residents, marking another milestone in the ongoing rural renewal drive under the Tinubu administration.

FG Backs $400m Investment, 10,000 Jobs in View

Toyin Adebayo
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FG Backs $400m Investment, 10,000 Jobs in View

***Nigeria to Host Africa’s Largest Rare Earth Plant

The Federal Government has endorsed a $400 million foreign direct investment (FDI) by Hasetins Commodities Limited to establish Africa’s largest rare earth and critical minerals processing plant in Nasarawa State — a transformative project expected to generate over 10,000 jobs nationwide.

Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, who received the management team of Hasetins Commodities in Abuja, described the initiative as a bold response to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s value-addition policy aimed at reviving Nigeria’s mining sector through local processing and beneficiation.

“With your collaboration, we are witnessing the birth of Africa’s biggest rare earth metals plant right here in Nigeria,” Alake said. “This project is a testament that our reforms are working, attracting the right investments, and creating opportunities for Nigerians.”

Hasetins Commodities, a firm specializing in critical metals for advanced technology and defence industries, plans to triple its existing 6,000 metric tonnes processing capacity by adding another 12,000 metric tonnes through the new facility. The company is also setting up regional mineral separation plants across the country to support artisanal miners and foster community development.

Alake commended the company for aligning its business model with the federal government’s drive for in-country mineral processing and industrialization. He noted that the project will not only boost job creation and skills development, but also stimulate investor confidence and economic diversification.

On behalf of President Tinubu and the Nigerian people, the Minister pledged full institutional support for the project, which he described as a game-changer in the nation’s solid minerals value chain.

In his remarks, Prince Jidayi, Managing Director/CEO of Hasetins Commodities Limited, credited the Minister’s leadership and sector-wide reforms for creating a more transparent and investor-friendly environment.

“The introduction of mining marshals to tackle illegal mining, and the simplification of licensing processes, gave us the confidence to commit to this major investment,” Prince Jidayi said. “Beyond this plant, we are investing in early-stage beneficiation to empower local miners, including training, safety equipment, and direct community engagement.”

Echoing this, the company’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Peter Butt, said Hasetins’ decision was further driven by the Ministry’s emphasis on value addition, structure, and long-term sustainability in the mining ecosystem.

“This is more than a business investment — it’s a shared vision for national development,” Butt said.

Hasetins Commodities’ rare earth plant will focus on metals essential for high-tech sectors, including green energy, aerospace, and electronics. With construction plans underway, the facility is expected to place Nigeria at the forefront of Africa’s critical minerals economy and reduce dependence on raw mineral exports.

The initiative represents a significant step in Nigeria’s plan to transform solid minerals into a pillar of industrial growth, innovation, and inclusive development.

Wike Declares IBB Golf Club a National Tourism Asset, Warns Tax Defaulters: “We Won’t Let Anyone Take What Belongs to the People”

Toyin Adebayo
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0
Wike Declares IBB Golf Club a National Tourism Asset, Warns Tax Defaulters: “We Won’t Let Anyone Take What Belongs to the People”

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has described the IBB International Golf and Country Club as a strategic national tourism asset that must be preserved, upgraded, and properly managed to support Nigeria’s economic diversification drive through tourism.

Speaking during his first official visit to the club on Friday, Wike commended the club’s standard and tourism potential, stressing that his administration would not tolerate misuse or backdoor privatization of government-owned assets.

“This is the property of the Nigerian government, and I’m proud to see it being properly managed. Some countries don’t have oil or gas, but thrive on tourism. If we get this place running to international standards, it will attract serious investors and boost our image globally,” Wike said.

He emphasized that although the club would be run through a private management structure, ownership would remain fully with the government. “We didn’t say go and own it; we said go and manage it. There is a big difference, and we won’t allow anyone to take what belongs to the people,” he warned.

The minister said Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, which built the facility in the 1990s, would be engaged again to lead the rehabilitation of the clubhouse and surrounding infrastructure. “They built it originally. It’s only logical that they take charge of the upgrade. This is an emergency project,” he added.

Linking the upgrade of public infrastructure to tax compliance, Wike issued a stern warning to property owners and residents of Abuja who default on ground rent. “Where do you think the money to fix this will come from—my personal pocket? If you don’t pay your ground rent, I will seal up your property. Public projects depend on public responsibility,” he declared.

Wike affirmed the administration’s commitment to tourism, describing the golf facility as a venue of high economic value, particularly during diplomatic and high-level government events. “This is the kind of facility that dignitaries and visitors can use. We are hosting ECOWAS meetings; delegates who play golf will want to use this space. That’s why it matters,” he said.

Earlier, the President of the Court of Appeal and Chairperson of the Club’s Board of Trustees, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, made an emotional appeal for urgent government intervention to save the club from collapse.

“This club, inaugurated in 1991 by the Federal Government, is one of the best in Sub-Saharan Africa. But decades of heavy usage and limited maintenance have taken a toll,” she said.

She noted that membership had grown from 29 at inception to over 5,000 members, but the infrastructure had remained the same. “This clubhouse was meant to have a second floor that was never built. Now we’re in a critical state—we are in the emergency unit,” she warned.

Dongban-Mensem likened the club’s potential to that of other major global tourism hubs and called on Wike to replicate the transformation he oversaw at the International Conference Centre. “That was amazing. We are hoping that this will be your next major intervention,” she said.

She further described the golf course as an ecological haven that must be protected. “This club is home to birds, monkeys, and other wildlife. It is also a bird observatory. If we leave it closed for too long, we risk losing this natural treasure.”

She appealed for urgent funding to rehabilitate the course, describing golfers as passionate and loyal members who had already endured weeks of closure. “Golfers are like fish out of water without their game. I cannot in good conscience recommend the reopening of the course without the necessary repairs.”

The minister concluded by assuring the club of full government support. “We won’t let this facility die. It’s a gem not just for Abuja, but for Nigeria’s international image. We will act fast,” he said.

Wike was later led on a guided tour of the facility’s most distressed areas, where he promised to prioritize the upgrades as part of his broader urban renewal efforts under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Tinubu’s Promise Underway: Wike Assures Apo Mechanics of Infrastructure in Wassa Relocation Plan

Toyin Adebayo
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Tinubu’s Promise Underway: Wike Assures Apo Mechanics of Infrastructure in Wassa Relocation Plan

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has assured that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is set to fulfill the long-standing promise of relocating Apo Mechanics to a permanent site in Wassa District — this time with the necessary infrastructure in place.

Wike gave the assurance in Abuja on Friday while inaugurating a ministerial committee to facilitate the relocation process. The committee, chaired by Wike himself, includes top officials from key departments such as Development Control, Lands, Urban and Regional Planning, Survey, Resettlement and Compensation, and the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council.

He noted that for over a decade — since 2011 — several governments had pledged to move the mechanics from their current location along the Outer Southern Expressway corridor to Wassa but failed to act.

> “It’s been promise after promise since 2011 without fulfillment,” Wike said. “But President Tinubu has made a promise, and we’ve already started the process of delivering on that promise.”

As part of the renewed plan, Wike announced that he and the leadership of the Apo Mechanics association will visit the Wassa site on June 27 to inspect the area and determine the infrastructure needs required to make the relocation viable.

> “The visit will help us assess what critical infrastructure needs to be provided — roads, electricity, water — to ensure a smooth and successful relocation,” the Minister explained.

Wike appealed to the mechanics to stay united and avoid internal disputes that could hinder the process, emphasizing that collaboration would fast-track progress.

> “You will achieve more by working together. Government exists to bring happiness to the people, and we are committed to ensuring that this relocation brings satisfaction and stability to your businesses,” he said.

The relocation project is seen as part of President Tinubu’s broader effort to restore order and ensure economic opportunity in the FCT. For the Apo auto dealers and artisans many of whom have worked for years in makeshift conditions the promise of a permanent, planned business hub in Wassa offers long-awaited hope.

The Wassa relocation, once considered a stalled agenda, now appears to be gaining fresh momentum under the current administration’s “Renewed Hope” commitment.

Tinubu Commissions Obafemi Awolowo Road in Abuja, Says ‘Vision Must Meet Action for National Progress’

Toyin Adebayo
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Tinubu Commissions Obafemi Awolowo Road in Abuja, Says ‘Vision Must Meet Action for National Progress’

…Wike hails President’s resolve, defends compensation for non-indigenes

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that visionary leadership must be backed by decisive action for Nigeria to achieve meaningful progress. The President made the remark on Friday, during the official commissioning of the newly completed Arterial Road N5 in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), now named Chief Obafemi Awolowo Road.

Speaking through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, President Tinubu said the road project reflects his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, translating policy into concrete benefits for citizens. “This road, named after a man of vision—Chief Obafemi Awolowo—now carries the legacy of forward-thinking leadership into the future of our capital city,” he said. “The Arterial Road N5 represents what we can achieve when vision meets action. It is a symbol of our collective progress and commitment to a better future.”

President Tinubu commended FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, and his team for delivering the project within record time, stating that the road will significantly ease congestion around Life Camp Junction and improve connectivity between Dape, Gwarinpa 1, Kado, Karsana, Idu, and Dambora. “To Abuja residents and indeed all Nigerians—this is your road. Own it, use it wisely, protect it, and celebrate it,” he urged.

In his remarks, Minister Wike thanked President Tinubu for his continued support and political will in backing Abuja’s development. He noted that the road, constructed by Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, features a six-lane dual carriageway with parking lanes, making it an eight-lane expressway that stretches from the Central Business District to Ring Road III in Gwarinpa.

Wike also addressed the initial resistance the project faced, particularly over compensation. “Some said because the residents were not ‘indigenous,’ they didn’t deserve compensation. But I insisted—under President Tinubu’s administration, no Nigerian should be denied justice. Everyone whose property was affected was paid, and that’s how we got this road completed,” he stated.

He praised Julius Berger for their professionalism and timely delivery, recalling his long-standing relationship with the construction giant since his time as Governor of Rivers State. “When we negotiated this project, I told the MD that it must be completed in time for Mr. President’s second-year anniversary—and they delivered,” Wike said.

Wike also expressed appreciation to the affected communities, acknowledging the emotional and cultural loss many endured. “No amount of money can replace one’s heritage, but I thank you for your understanding. Your sacrifice has made this development possible.”

Mr. Richard Dauda, Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), described the road as a vital corridor that aligns with the FCT Master Plan. “It begins near the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre in the Central Business District, cuts across Wuse, Utako, Jabi, Dape, and Life Camp, and ends at Ring Road III. Future development will see it extend into Phase IV of the FCT,” he explained.

Wike revealed that talks are underway to further extend the road toward the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, with compensations being processed to allow construction to continue unhindered.

The commissioning ceremony drew top officials, community leaders, lawmakers, contractors, and residents, who all hailed the road as a testament to President Tinubu’s commitment to delivering infrastructure that improves lives and connects communities.

“This is Renewed Hope in action,” Wike said. “This is how we build a greater Nigeria vision matched with action.”

Wike Declares Political Strength Unshaken: “No One Can Say There’s No Hope for Me in Rivers State”

Toyin Adebayo
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0
Wike Declares Political Strength Unshaken: “No One Can Say There’s No Hope for Me in Rivers State”

…Says loyal allies across Nigeria remain his biggest strength

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has firmly declared that his political relevance remains unshaken, especially in his home state of Rivers, insisting that no one can dismiss his influence.

“No one can say there’s no hope for me in Rivers State. I don’t see that person—and that’s the truth,” Wike stated emphatically during the commissioning of the Arterial Road N5 in Abuja on Friday.

Addressing a gathering of high-ranking officials, lawmakers, and supporters, Wike said his political momentum is not by chance but anchored on a nationwide network of loyal allies. “Mr. President, I don’t know any politician who enjoys this kind of support. Each time we commission a project in Abuja, friends from Rivers, Abia, Enugu, Sokoto, Cross River, and other states come in solidarity. These men are worthy of commendation. May God bless and strengthen them,” he said.

The former Rivers State governor emphasized that true leadership derives power from the strength and loyalty of those around it. “A man is only as strong as those beside him. If I come out alone, you might say, ‘forget him.’ But when I stand with these people, you know we mean business,” Wike added.

His remarks not only reaffirmed his continued political relevance but also served as a subtle message to critics who have questioned his standing in Rivers State politics. Wike’s growing influence in Abuja, paired with strong ties across Nigeria, signals a political figure far from retreat.

Tinubu Reaffirms Commitment to Infrastructure Development

Toyin Adebayo
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0
Tinubu Reaffirms Commitment to Infrastructure Development

…Says Road Projects Are Not Expenses But Smart Investments in People’s Lives

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to infrastructure development, describing it as a strategic investment in national growth and an essential tool for improving the lives of citizens.

Speaking through the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr. Benjamin Kalu, during the commissioning of the newly completed Collector Road CN2 (Zakari A. Kiari Street) in Mabushi, Abuja, Tinubu lauded the project’s timely delivery, which connects Amadu Bello Way to Katampe District, easing traffic, improving access, and boosting local economic activity.

“President Tinubu asked me to convey his heartfelt commitment to the development of the FCT and to commend the FCT Minister for his tireless efforts in delivering quality infrastructure,” Dr. Kalu said. “This road reflects our administration’s dedication to urban renewal and improving the quality of life for Nigerians.”

Applauding the pace and standard of execution, Tinubu, through his representative, hailed FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, for completing the project ahead of schedule and within budget, calling it “a testament to transparency, accountability, and visionary leadership.”

The President also acknowledged CGC Nigeria Limited, the contractor, for delivering a high-quality job, and urged residents of Mabushi, Katampe, and surrounding areas to take ownership of the infrastructure and protect it from misuse.

“Infrastructure development is not an expenditure—it is an investment in our people and our future,” Tinubu emphasized. “Our administration will continue to prioritize critical sectors, including roads, housing, transportation, education, and healthcare. Every Nigerian must feel the impact of good governance.”

Dedicating the road to Nigerian workers, families, and youth who would benefit most, the President added, “We hope this road brings convenience, safety, and opportunity.”

Echoing his broader national vision, he declared, “May we move forward united in purpose, bold in vision, and unshaken in our belief that a greater Nigeria is not just possible—it is inevitable.”

Meanwhile, FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, used the occasion to deliver a blunt warning to property owners in Abuja who have failed to pay their ground rent, vowing to publish the names of defaulters. “If you know you have land here and you’ve not paid your ground rent, I will publish your name,” Wike stated. “We need that money to build roads and infrastructure—no one gets to enjoy the city for free.”

Wike criticized elite landowners who evade tax obligations locally but comply with property tax laws abroad. “Before they leave London or America, they pay their property tax. But here in Nigeria, they want to be begged and given time. That must stop,” he said.

Following the road commissioning, the Minister also inspected the Judges’ Quarters and the ongoing N5 Road project in Life camp, reaffirming his resolve to accelerate infrastructure delivery across the Federal Capital Territory.

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