…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.
