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Tinubu to Commission Key Abuja Highway Friday as Apo Traders Suspend Business

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***Traffic Diversion Announced for Apo-Wasa Road During Ceremony

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will on Friday, June 13, commission the newly completed Left-Hand Service Carriageway of the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) Stage II, stretching from Ring Road I Junction to Wasa Junction in Abuja.

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) confirmed the commissioning ceremony will take place at 2:30 p.m., with the President expected to lead the high-profile event.

In preparation for the visit, the FCTA has announced a temporary closure of the Apo-Wasa Road from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., urging motorists to use alternative routes to avoid delays.

A statement issued by Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the FCT Minister, emphasized that the traffic diversion is essential to ensure security and the smooth conduct of the commissioning.

In a gesture of support, traders, mechanics, and other business owners in the Apo Mechanic Village have voluntarily agreed to shut down their shops on Friday to welcome the President and participate in the event.

“The traders and mechanic associations have directed their members to close shops tomorrow and resume business on Saturday,” Olayinka stated.

Traffic officers will be stationed at strategic points to guide road users and minimize inconvenience. The FCTA has also appealed to residents for understanding during the temporary disruption.

“We plead with road users that will be affected by this temporary closure to bear with the government while using alternative routes,” the statement said.

The Apo-Wasa project is a major component of the Tinubu administration’s broader infrastructure agenda, aimed at improving road connectivity and easing congestion in the southern section of the Federal Capital Territory.

The commissioning marks yet another milestone in the FCT’s ongoing urban renewal and transportation upgrades under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Lassa Fever Claims 142 Lives, NCDC Confirms 747 Cases Across 18 States

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Nigeria has recorded 747 confirmed cases of Lassa fever and 142 deaths across 18 states in 2025, according to the latest situation report from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), signaling a continued public health threat with a worrying case fatality rate of 19%.

The figures, captured as of Epidemiological Week 22, show a slight increase in fatality compared to the same period last year, despite a marginal drop in total infections. Fresh cases were reported last week from Ondo, Bauchi, Edo, and Nasarawa states.

The majority of infections—an overwhelming 91%—are concentrated in just five states: Ondo (31%), Bauchi (25%), Edo (16%), Taraba (16%), and Ebonyi (3%).

Victims are predominantly young adults, with a median age of 30 years and a near-equal gender distribution. The most affected age group remains those between 21 and 30 years.

In response to the outbreak, the NCDC has ramped up national containment efforts. “We remain vigilant and continue to coordinate response activities through our multi-partner, multi-sectoral Incident Management System,” the agency said.

As part of its intervention, the NCDC has:

Deployed 10 National Rapid Response Teams to high-burden states;

Supplied Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs), Ribavirin, and body bags to treatment centres;

Collaborated with partners such as the World Health Organization (WHO), Robert Koch Institute, Georgetown University, and DRASA Health Trust to strengthen frontline capacity.

Key achievements include:

Training of health workers in Bauchi, Ebonyi, and Benue States on Lassa fever case management;

Launch of a national IPC e-learning platform to boost infection prevention and control in healthcare settings;

Organization of sensitization webinars for clinicians and public health officials;

Distribution of updated Viral Haemorrhagic Fever (VHF) guidelines across hospitals nationwide.

The NCDC noted that infection prevention and control structures in hospitals have also been reinforced to reduce nosocomial (hospital-acquired) transmission.

Nigerians, particularly those in high-risk regions, are advised to take proactive preventive steps, such as keeping homes rodent-free, storing food properly, and maintaining personal and environmental hygiene.

“We continue to enhance surveillance, contact tracing, and active case finding, while sustaining community awareness on Lassa fever prevention,” the NCDC emphasized.

Lassa fever, an acute viral hemorrhagic illness, is primarily transmitted through contact with infected rodents or contaminated household items. With the rainy season intensifying, public health experts warn that environmental conditions may increase the risk of transmission in the weeks ahead.

The NCDC has urged state governments, community leaders, and healthcare providers to remain alert and ensure prompt reporting of suspected cases, as Nigeria continues its battle against one of its deadliest recurring outbreaks.

FG Launches ‘Free to Shine’ Campaign in South-East, Moves to End HIV, Syphilis, Hepatitis by 2030

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The Federal Government has taken a major step toward eliminating HIV/AIDS and other infectious diseases in Nigeria with the launch of the ‘Free to Shine’ campaign in Enugu, targeting the South-East region. The campaign, led by the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, marks the final regional rollout of the initiative aimed at ending HIV/AIDS, Syphilis, and Hepatitis by 2030.

The campaign is part of a broader continental initiative under the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) and the African Union, focusing on prevention, awareness, and healthcare access, especially among women and children.

“Nigeria bears the highest burden of HIV/AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa,” said the First Lady. “This campaign aims to prevent new infections, stop mother-to-child transmission, and ensure that children born with HIV receive adequate treatment and care.”

She emphasized that the ‘Free to Shine’ campaign is aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and called for deeper collaboration with community, religious, and traditional leaders to expand testing, counselling, and treatment.

Recent data from the Federal Ministry of Health shows that in 2024 alone, over 100,000 children and nearly 2 million adults were living with HIV in Nigeria. Many HIV-positive mothers do not test their infants early due to limited awareness, resulting in preventable child deaths.

The First Lady also championed the Triple Elimination initiative, which targets the simultaneous eradication of HIV/AIDS, Syphilis, and Hepatitis—diseases she said contribute to miscarriages, stillbirths, liver complications, and high infant mortality when untreated.

She praised the efforts of frontline health workers, national agencies such as NACA and NASCP, and international partners including WHO, UNAIDS, UNICEF, UNDP, PEPFAR, and EGPAF, for their ongoing support.

In a heartfelt message to the youth, she said, “You are the most vulnerable, but also our greatest hope. Please protect yourselves.”

Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, hailed the First Lady as Nigeria’s “Chief Public Health Champion,” crediting her for mobilizing support and raising awareness across the country.

“Your leadership sends a strong message: HIV, Hepatitis, and Syphilis are preventable and treatable. These are no longer death sentences,” Salako said.

He highlighted Nigeria’s multi-pronged approach to tackling the diseases, including:

Prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT)

Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision (VMMC)

Access to Pre- and Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP/PEP)

Expanded testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

According to him, 1.7 million Nigerians are currently receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART), and the federal government has made budgetary provisions to ensure consistent drug availability. Efforts are also ongoing to integrate HIV care into national health insurance schemes.

New data from NASCP suggests a steady decline in new HIV infections and vertical transmission rates, with expectations of a sharper reduction by the end of 2025.

However, Dr. Salako stressed the need for greater state-level action. “We urge state governments to increase domestic funding, absorb trained health workers, and reduce dependency on dwindling donor support.”

In a compelling message to Nigerian youth, he added: “The best prevention for HIV and STIs is a cup of water—not before, not after, but instead of sex.”

The ‘Free to Shine’ campaign, under the Renewed Hope Initiative, will continue to drive national momentum around public health, sexual health education, and disease prevention. With strong political will and sustained community engagement, Nigeria remains on course to achieve the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets by 2030.

APC Open to Welcoming Wike into the Fold – Tinubu

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday signaled that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is open to welcoming Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, into its ranks whenever he chooses to make the move.

Speaking at the commissioning of the Arterial Road N16—linking Shehu Shagari Way (Ring Road I) to Arterial Road N20 (Wole Soyinka Way)—and other key infrastructure projects in the Katampe District of Abuja, the President lauded Wike’s performance, declaring that the former Rivers State Governor has lived up to the expectations of his office.

“Even though Wike is not yet a member of our party, we are very proud of him. He is doing well. When he decides to join us, we will open our doors wide,” Tinubu said, to the applause of dignitaries. “With Wike, APC will continue to rejoice while the opposition keeps groaning.”

Wike, a prominent member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has worked closely with the Tinubu administration since his appointment last year, fueling ongoing speculation about a potential defection to the ruling party.

Tinubu’s remarks have now added fresh momentum to those rumors, as political calculations for the 2027 general elections begin to crystallize.

Despite the political undertones, the President quickly pivoted back to the day’s agenda—celebrating infrastructure delivery under his Renewed Hope Agenda.

“This project represents more than just a stretch of asphalt,” Tinubu said. “It affirms our commitment to urban transformation. Since assuming office, this administration has been guided by a philosophy anchored on reform and regeneration. Today, we see tangible proof of that vision.”

He applauded the FCT Administration for completing the long-neglected road, which had been stalled for years despite its centrality to the Abuja Master Plan.

“What was once a missing link is now a vital artery—modern, functional, and durable. This road will ease traffic congestion in Central Abuja and enhance connectivity to Katampe, Jahi, Mabushi, and beyond,” he noted.

Reaffirming the importance of infrastructure to national development, Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to roads, railways, power, healthcare, education, and digital infrastructure.

“Infrastructure is not a luxury; it is a necessity. It is the bedrock of economic opportunity, industrialization, and national integration. And I promise you—we will keep building,” he vowed.

The President also credited the road’s success to collaborative leadership within the FCT team.

“Barrister Wike could not have achieved this alone. It takes teamwork, and you have shown that the right leadership delivers results,” Tinubu said.

He called on Abuja residents to take ownership of the newly delivered infrastructure and ensure its preservation.

“The government has played its part. Now it’s your turn. Use this road wisely, protect it, and don’t let distractions deter development. We didn’t allow protests to stop us, and we won’t stop building.”

In his own remarks, the FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, described the road as more than an engineering feat, calling it a symbol of national renewal and future-focused governance.

“This project is not just concrete and asphalt. It’s a bold statement that under the Renewed Hope Agenda, Abuja is reclaiming its vision,” Wike said. “What was once a gap in the city’s plan is now a functional and durable connection to Abuja’s future.”

He noted that the corridor had remained dormant for years, despite its critical role in urban mobility and development. With its completion, the revitalized artery is expected to decongest traffic in central districts and unlock housing and commercial opportunities.

“This road will open up the FCT for new investments and help integrate emerging districts into the city’s economy. It lays the foundation for a more connected and resilient Abuja,” Wike added.

The Arterial Road N16 project forms part of a broader wave of infrastructure projects being unveiled across the FCT in a 10-day commissioning campaign approved by President Tinubu.

Tinubu’s Good Work Has Killed the Coalition – Wike Declares at Road Commissioning

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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared that efforts by opposition forces to form a coalition against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections are doomed to fail.

Speaking on Wednesday during the official commissioning of the Arterial Road N16 in the Katampe District of Abuja, Wike attributed the collapse of the planned coalition to President Tinubu’s performance in office.

> “Your good work has killed the coalition,” Wike said directly to the President during the inauguration ceremony. “I was thinking that truly, there would be a coalition. But that coalition is bound to fail, and it has already failed.”

The newly inaugurated road connects Shehu Shagari Way (Ring Road I) to Wole Soyinka Way (Arterial Road N20), and includes an interchange and other link roads designed to enhance access to Katampe, Jahi, Mabushi, and other developing districts.

Describing the project as a critical component of the Abuja Master Plan, Wike noted that the corridor had been neglected for years before its revival under the current administration.

“This road is more than just asphalt and concrete. It is proof of this administration’s commitment to infrastructure-led development under the Renewed Hope Agenda,” the FCT Minister stated.

He also commended President Tinubu for approving a 10-day window for the commissioning of multiple completed projects across the capital, describing it as a show of confidence in the FCT Administration.

> “Your leadership style is results-driven. Abuja is changing because we are matching words with action. This project is a clear symbol of that transformation,” Wike said.

In his remarks, President Bola Tinubu praised Wike’s leadership and the teamwork within the FCT Administration, saying that the government would continue to prioritize infrastructure to drive national development.

“Infrastructure is not a luxury—it is a necessity. It’s the bedrock of our economy, of social integration, and industrial growth,” the President said.

“We’re investing in roads, rail, power, healthcare, education, and digital infrastructure because coordinated development is the only way to unlock Nigeria’s full potential,” he added.

President Tinubu further urged residents of the FCT to take ownership of the newly commissioned infrastructure and ensure its maintenance, affirming that the federal government will not be distracted by political opposition.

“We will continue to build and serve the people, no matter the noise from the naysayers,” Tinubu stated.

More projects are expected to be inaugurated in the coming days as part of ongoing urban renewal efforts in the capital city.

“Ignore the Bystanders, Tinubu ***Commissions Abuja ICC, Declares End to Free Use

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…Says Wike’s Transformation Reflects New Nigeria, Urges Payment Culture for Public Facilities

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday commissioned the newly renovated Abuja International Conference Centre now renamed the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre with a firm declaration that the era of free or sentimental access to public facilities is over.

“Don’t mind the distractors and busybodies,” Tinubu said, turning to Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike. “You want to use this place? Then you must pay for it. Obey the landlord!”

The President’s remarks, met with laughter and applause, sent a clear message about the administration’s commitment to accountability, sustainability, and renewed national pride under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The ICC, once a symbol of national embarrassment, has been completely transformed into a world-class hub for diplomacy, commerce, and governance—a metamorphosis Tinubu credited to Wike’s visionary leadership.

“When I attended the ECOWAS Parliament here, the place was filthy and disorganised. I told Wike, ‘This does not represent who we are.’ He promised to fix it and today, I’m proud of what I see,” the President recalled.

Tinubu urged Wike to stay focused, praising his bold reforms and urban renewal drive in the capital city.

“Don’t pay attention to busybodies and bystanders,” he repeated. “You’re a transformational leader with the foresight and courage to deliver. Keep going.”

The President said the upgraded ICC is more than just a building—it’s a metaphor for Nigeria’s broader transformation. Under his administration, public infrastructure is being reimagined to meet global standards.

“This centre shows what Nigeria can be. We’re fixing what’s wrong, and showing the world that Nigeria is back with confidence and vision.”

In his remarks, Senate President Godswill Akpabio shared his dismay at the rundown state of the ICC during a regional event last year. Dim lighting, faulty generators, and peeling walls embarrassed Nigeria before its West African peers.

“Mr. President, you turned to me and asked, ‘Is this what we’re showcasing to West Africa?’” Akpabio recounted. “But thanks to Wike’s swift action, that shame has been erased.”

He praised the renaming of the halls after leaders from the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary, calling it a powerful symbol of unity and collective leadership in Nigeria’s ongoing renewal.

“This is transformation, whether people like it or not,” Akpabio added. “The Parliament is proud of you. We approve budgets, but you execute with excellence.”

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike lauded President Tinubu’s unwavering leadership and the directive that spurred the renovation. He said the project’s success was not just physical but philosophical—signaling that Nigeria demands excellence in all things.

“Because of your instruction, we now have a centre that rivals any in the world,” Wike said.

He made it clear that sentiment and favoritism will no longer influence facility use. Whether government officials or private citizens, all users must pay a fee to access the ICC.

“There is nothing like ‘my brother wants to host a wedding.’ If you want to use this beautiful place, you must drop something,” Wike declared. “That’s the only way we can maintain and sustain it.”

Wike also exposed how the facility had been mismanaged by a politically connected individual who attempted to block the rehabilitation in court.

“If not for your kind of leadership, Mr. President, we would not have succeeded. Our real problem in Nigeria is leadership—and you’ve proven that when it’s right, everything else follows.”

The event drew dignitaries from across Nigeria, all hailing the rebirth of the ICC as a visible symbol of the Renewed Hope Agenda, and a preview of the urban transformation set to define Tinubu’s legacy.

Wike Renames Abuja ICC After Tinubu, Ends Free Access for Ministries and Agencies

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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has renamed the Abuja International Conference Centre (ICC) as the Bola Tinubu International Conference Centre, in honour of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Wike made the announcement on Tuesday during the inauguration of the newly rehabilitated facility in Abuja, describing it as a symbol of national unity and a testament to leadership under the current administration.

He also revealed that major halls within the complex have been renamed after key figures in Nigeria’s three arms of government: Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, and Chief Justice Olukayode Ariwoola.

“These are the three arms of government working together. It is only right that they are recognised within this iconic structure,” Wike said.

Built in 1991, the ICC had suffered years of neglect, according to the Minister. He credited the eight-month transformation of the facility to President Tinubu’s leadership, declaring that the upgraded centre now meets global standards.

“Without Mr. President’s leadership and directive, this wouldn’t have been possible. Today, this Centre can stand shoulder to shoulder with any international conference centre around the world,” he added.

To prevent further deterioration and ensure proper upkeep, Wike announced a strict user-pay policy. All users—including ministries, agencies, and private individuals—will now be required to pay before using the facility.

“No more free access, no more sentiments,” he said. “If you want to use a place like this, then you must drop something. That’s the only way it can be sustained.”

Wike also hinted at past mismanagement of the facility, noting that a politically connected individual had attempted to block its rehabilitation through legal action, which was ultimately unsuccessful.

The minister reiterated his commitment to accountability and restoring the FCT’s public infrastructure to world-class standards.

 

FCT Pilgrims Get Standard Luggage Ahead of June 13 Return Flights from Saudi Arabia

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The Federal Capital Territory Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board (FCT MPWB) has commenced the distribution of 32-kilogram standard luggage bags to FCT pilgrims ahead of their return from the 2025 Hajj in Saudi Arabia.

 

This distribution comes in preparation for the official start of return flights to Nigeria, scheduled by the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to begin on June 13, 2025.

 

Officials overseeing the process advised all pilgrims to strictly adhere to the approved baggage policy to avoid delays or penalties during airport checks. The uniform luggage provision is aimed at ensuring smooth processing at departure and arrival terminals.

 

FCT MPWB has assured that the exercise will continue until every registered pilgrim receives a bag, as part of efforts to guarantee an orderly and stress-free return journey for all.

 

Infrastructure Is the Bedrock of National Development – Wike Declares at OAU Lecture

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Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has asserted that no nation can truly progress without a solid infrastructure base, describing it as the “architecture of equality” and the cornerstone of national development.

 

Wike made the declaration on Thursday while delivering the 2025 edition of the Distinguished Personality Lecture at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife. His lecture, titled “The Nigeria of Our Dreams,” examined the critical roles of infrastructure, leadership, and good governance in the country’s future.

 

“Infrastructure is not just about roads and bridges,” Wike said. “It is about connecting destinies, unlocking human potential, and laying the foundation for sustainable national transformation.”

 

He stressed that infrastructure is a key driver of dignity, inclusion, productivity, and hope—bridging the wide gap between urban privilege and rural neglect.

 

“The Nigeria of our dreams is one where a child in rural Zamfara enjoys the same access to quality education, healthcare, and opportunities as a child in urban Lagos,” he declared. “Reliable transportation, steady power supply, and access to digital technology should not be luxuries—they are necessities.”

 

Wike commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing infrastructure through his Renewed Hope Agenda, saying it reflects bold leadership and a deep commitment to repositioning the country.

 

“Even the harshest critic of President Tinubu would admit that infrastructure delivery is improving,” Wike stated. “The Renewed Hope Agenda is more than a slogan—it’s a recalibration of our national priorities.”

 

He cited Abuja’s rapid transformation as a symbol of what is possible when vision is backed by political will, noting that his own efforts in the FCT have been propelled by the President’s unwavering support.

 

“Though I may be driving the engine of change in the FCT, none of it would have been possible without President Tinubu’s relentless support,” he emphasized.

 

According to Wike, the capital city has, within two years, evolved into a more fitting reflection of Nigeria’s status as Africa’s most populous nation—proof of what determined leadership can accomplish.

 

Beyond infrastructure, Wike identified other critical pillars for achieving the Nigeria of our dreams: strong democratic institutions, adherence to the rule of law, quality education, efficient healthcare, human capital development, economic growth, security, national unity, and the empowerment of local governments.

 

“Democracy must go beyond periodic elections,” he said. “It must become a culture of transparency, accountability, and inclusive leadership.”

 

Quoting Stanford University scholar Prof. Larry Diamond, Wike reminded his audience that sustaining democracy is often more difficult than attaining it.

 

“Democracy is not a potted plant to be uprooted and transplanted anywhere,” he said. “It requires nurturing—through sacrifice, commitment, and constant vigilance.”

 

He also called for a new ethic in public service—one grounded in integrity and responsibility.

 

“Holding public office is not a personal privilege,” he stated. “It is a sacred trust that must be honoured and protected.”

 

In his closing remarks, Wike urged both leaders and citizens to take collective responsibility for building a just, innovative, and equitable Nigeria.

 

“The Nigerian dream is not something to merely wish for—it’s something we must work for,” he said. “We must build it daily, with responsible leadership, active citizenship, and unwavering determination to make our country great.”

 

 

 

No Politician Will Run Abuja Conference Centre — Wike

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***Says Sustainability Key to FCT Projects

 

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has declared that the newly completed Abuja International Conference Centre will be professionally maintained to global standards, stressing that sustainability—not political patronage—will define its future.

Speaking during an inspection of key projects across the capital city, Wike said the FCT Administration has entered an agreement with construction giant Julius Berger to manage and maintain the Conference Centre after completion, ensuring the facility does not suffer the fate of poorly maintained public infrastructure.

“We will not hand this place over to any politician. Maintenance is our biggest challenge in Nigeria, and we want to change that narrative,” the Minister said.
“Julius Berger, which built this center, will be responsible for its maintenance. We are finalizing a proper agreement where every user of the facility will contribute to its upkeep.”

Wike assured that the Centre would commence operations shortly after commissioning, adding that Nigerian personnel already trained under expert supervision are fully prepared to run the facility.

“There’s no need to worry about the technology. It’s not complicated, and our staff are ready. The company that installed the systems will also handle maintenance to ensure functionality,” he said.

Highlighting the broader vision behind recent infrastructure delivery in the FCT, Wike emphasized that sustainability, accountability, and strong leadership have driven results despite limited resources and bureaucratic hurdles.

“Everything comes down to leadership. Once you set clear goals and remain committed, results will follow,” he said.
“You don’t need unlimited resources; you just need to manage what you have effectively. Bureaucracy can slow things down, but if your vision is clear, people will align.”

The Minister, accompanied by top officials, inspected several projects including the Nigeria–São Tomé & Príncipe Investment Freezone Enterprise (NSIFE), Gishiri Road, Onesex District, and the new development in Wassa. He commended the quality of work by construction firms and described the progress as one of his administration’s proudest moments.

“At a time when Nigerians are facing economic challenges, we are still able to deliver critical infrastructure,” he said.
“We thank God for the opportunity, and we appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support.”

Wike also revealed that some infrastructure like the emergency A2-Pia road project were completed under tough financial constraints, showcasing the FCTA’s resolve to respond swiftly to the needs of residents.

As Abuja continues to expand, the Minister said the FCT Administration remains focused on projects that not only se

rve immediate needs but are built to last, with systems in place to prevent future decay.

“We are not just building infrastructure—we are building institutions and setting standards. That is the legacy we want to leave behind,” he concluded.