The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has expressed doubt over the completion of the long-awaited Apo-Karshi road project by April 2025, despite contractors’ assurances.
The minister emphasized the project’s importance in alleviating traffic congestion and boosting the economy of the surrounding areas but remains cautiously optimistic about the deadline.
Speaking during an inspection of the road on Thursday in Abuja, Wike acknowledged the delays faced by the contractors, citing procurement challenges as the reason for the setback. “The last time we came, we believed that each of the contractors had moved back to the site. Obviously, we thought that within seven months, they ought to have completed it, but unfortunately, the contractors were unable to move due to some procurement processes. Thank God we’ve passed that stage, and they have now been mobilized to site,” Wike explained.
Despite the renewed commitment from the contractors, the minister remains skeptical about the projected completion date. “I still have my doubts. I won’t lie to you. But they are insisting that by April, they would have completed this project. This project is very dear to us. We know the importance of this road so many people are eager for it to be completed on time to ease traffic and boost economic activity in this area. Let’s give them the benefit of the doubt,” Wike said.
He further assured that if progress continues, additional funds will be released to accelerate the project’s completion. “I believe they will play their part. The funds are there, and if they put more effort, and I see improvement when I come again, I’ll instruct the treasury department to release further funds. But for now, let’s watch them. We are serious about this project,” he added.
Addressing concerns about the possibility of canceling the project due to delays, Wike explained that such a decision would have far-reaching consequences. “So many people don’t understand that canceling a project has a lot of implications financial, legal, and more. We don’t want that. Instead, we’ll continue encouraging the contractors to finish on time because we’re ready from our side. That’s why I’ll keep coming here to ensure the project stays on track,” Wike stated.
In addition to the Apo-Karshi road, Wike revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the immediate rehabilitation of the Nyanya-Karu-Orozo road, an 18-kilometer stretch critical to easing movement in the FCT. Wike’s inspection of the road last year led to this approval, noting the dire condition of the road and its importance due to the presence of several government agencies along the route.
“We wrote to Mr. President, and he approved the immediate rehabilitation of that road under emergency measures. It is an 18-kilometer road, and there will be streetlights. The contractor has given us an eight-month timeline for completion. This road is very important, and once it’s completed, alongside the Karshi-Apo road, we’re good to go,” Wike affirmed.
With both projects underway, Wike’s focus on infrastructure aims to ease traffic congestion and drive economic growth in key areas of the FCT.
