Abuja: President Bola Tinubu has commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for aligning with his vision to develop Abuja into a world-class capital city. Tinubu made these remarks in Abuja during the inauguration of the first phase of Arterial Road N5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way), stretching from Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III, marking his second year in office.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the President, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, emphasized that the Arterial Road N5 exemplifies the outcomes when vision is coupled with action. He highlighted the road as a symbol of collective progress and a commitment to a better future, with modern infrastructure aimed at enhancing the daily lives of citizens. The inauguration is expected to improve traffic flow in districts such as Dape, Gwarimpa 1, Kado, Karsana, Idu, and Mbora, while alleviating congestion around the Life Camp Junction.
Tinubu extended his appreciation to the FCT administration, residents, and stakeholders pivotal to the project's success. He acknowledged Mr. Wike's efforts and congratulated the FCT administration for supporting the vision of elevating Abuja's status to match the world's leading capital cities.
Minister Nyesom Wike urged FCT residents to bear with the inconveniences accompanying ongoing infrastructural developments, noting that progress often comes with challenges. He disclosed that the Federal Executive Council awarded the contract for the Arterial Road N5 extension in September 2024, with work commencing in October. The project, executed by Julius Berger in two phases, has seen the completion of the first phase, with the second phase slated for completion by the end of 2025. Wike praised communities affected by the project for their understanding and support, assuring that compensation was provided following Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda.
The minister mentioned ongoing discussions with community leaders regarding compensation to facilitate the road extension to Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport. He also expressed gratitude to the President and the National Assembly for their recognition of the FCT's efforts.
In a prior address, Mr. Richard Dauda, acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority, described the road as a six-lane dual carriageway with an additional parking lane, totaling eight lanes. He noted that the road is a major inter-district route traversing several city districts, as outlined in the FCT Master Plan. The Arterial Road N5 begins at the Central Business District, passes the International Conference Centre and NPC towers, and extends through Wuse, Utako, and Jabi Districts, reaching Dape and Gwarinpa Districts. Future developments are planned to extend the road to Phase IV. Dauda confirmed that Phases I and II are fully developed, with the newly inaugurated section belonging to Phase III, connecting Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III.