Abuja: The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, announced plans for the dualisation of the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) from Apo to Wassa Junction. This announcement was made during the inauguration of the completed 15-kilometre left-hand service carriageway of OSEX Stage II, extending from Ring Road I to Wassa Junction.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the initiative aims to alleviate traffic congestion, enhance vehicular movement, and boost economic activities along the expressway. The left-hand service carriageway project began in 2017 with an initial cost of N6 billion, which rose to N21 billion after a contract variation in 2021. Upon assuming office in August 2023, Wike observed the road's poor condition and noted that the project had been stalled due to funding issues.
The minister highlighted that the right-hand service carriageway was suffering from heavy traffic, adversely affecting economic activities. Completing the OSEX project aligns with President Bola Tinubu's administration's goal of finishing ongoing projects. Wike reiterated his commitment to making funds available to ensure the project's completion, thereby improving connectivity and easing traffic from Apo to Wassa, while linking Takushara and Kabusa communities.
Wike emphasized the importance of developing not only the city but also rural communities, urging FCT residents to continue paying taxes to facilitate further infrastructure projects. He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and the National Assembly for their support.
Furthermore, Wike pledged to relocate Apo Mechanic traders and artisans from the OSEX road corridor to Wassa, committing to overseeing the process personally.
During the road's inauguration, President Tinubu, represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, stated that the road is a crucial addition to Abuja's transport network, supporting sustainable urban development and improving the quality of life in the FCT.
Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, FCT Minister of State, remarked that the project reflects the Tinubu administration's "Renewed Hope Agenda," delivering enhanced mobility and economic opportunities to FCT residents.
Mr. Richard Dauda, Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority, detailed that the OSEX is a 10-lane expressway with two main carriageways and two service carriageways. The approximately 60-kilometre road begins at the Villa Roundabout, passes through Kuje, and connects to the Abuja-Lokoja expressway at A2 in Gwagwalada. The first stage, from the Villa Roundabout to Ring Road I, was completed and inaugurated in 2024. The newly completed left-hand service carriageway marks the third project inaugurated out of 17 planned to celebrate Tinubu's second year in office.