More infrastructure and urban renewal projects are coming, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said yesterday.
He spoke while inaugurating roads B6, B12, and Circle Road in the Central Area District of Abuja.
President Tinubu restated his administration’s commitment to infrastructural development and urban renewal.
He described it as “a cornerstone of our vision for a more prosperous and much more connected Nigeria”.
In the heart of Abuja, Road B6 (Constitution Avenue) and Road B12 (Independence Avenue) connect the three-arms zone, cultural and diplomatic areas, ministries, state liaison offices and corporate and commercial offices.
The President believes the projects will reduce traffic congestion and travel time while ensuring seamless connectivity within the capital.
Represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, the President said: “Our Renewed Hope Agenda continues to prioritise infrastructure as a driving force for economic advancement, with a commitment to building more roads, bridges, and essential infrastructure that will connect people and drive the economy.
“When I assumed office one year ago, my administration set forth an ambitious agenda to transform our nation’s infrastructural landscape.
“We recognise that an efficient transport network remains vital for economic growth, social integration, and overall national development.
“As we commission these strategic roads, we are not just opening pathways of asphalt and concrete but also paving the way to enhance economic activities, improve accessibility, and a higher quality of life for our citizens.
“I’d like to commend the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, his team, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and all the stakeholders involved in this project that we have commissioned for the past seven days.
“Your hard work, dedication, and adherence to higher standards of quality have made these achievements possible.
“As we celebrate, let us also recognise that our job is far from being over.
“As a testament to our Renewed Hope Agenda, we remain committed to continuing this journey of building more roads, bridges, and essential infrastructure that will connect our people and drive our economy.”
Wike said President Tinubu’s leadership was the driving force behind the achievement.
Giving a background, the minister said: “Mr. President, this road was first awarded in 2007, with a price tag of N48.5 billion.
“After multiple revisions, the cost ballooned to N98.8 billion in 2021.
“But in just one year of your administration, we’ve turned a 17-year-old dream into a reality.
“This is the power of effective leadership!”
Wike praised the President’s focus on completing existing projects, saying: “When we were inaugurated in August 2023, Mr. President gave us a clear directive: complete all ongoing projects before starting new ones.
“That’s why we’ve been working tirelessly to finish projects awarded by previous administrations since 2007.
“Our 2024 budget reflects this commitment, with 58 per cent dedicated to completing old projects and 42 per cent for new initiatives. This is what leadership looks like.”
FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, praised President Tinubu’s leadership, saying his naming the Arterial Road N20 after Wole Soyinka Way was a testament to his commitment to excellence.
She said: “Your support has been instrumental in our success, inspiring us to push boundaries and make a real difference in the lives of FCT residents.
“Your leadership has been the wind in our sails, and we’re grateful for its impact on our efforts.
“We look forward to continuing our partnership, driving progress, and achieving even more together.”
Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Shehu Hadi, an engineer, said the new roads (B6, B12, and Circle Road) form a vital network that connects some of Abuja’s most important zones, providing a principal route from the Airport Expressway to the Central Area.
“Additionally, they serve as a presidential route, connecting the Three Arms Zone and the Presidential Villa.
“Designed for efficiency and safety, the roads feature two main carriageways with two lanes and two bus lanes, plus 41 bridges and retaining walls at various intersections, ensuring smooth travel and minimizing congestion,” he said.
