Office Of The Chief Press Secretary FCT (2025)

06/07/2025

FCTA PRESS RELEASE

FCT MINISTER DESCRIBES “RESCUE NIGERIA” CLAIM BY OPPOSITION PARTIES AS SELFISH

…HOLDS THANKSGIVING SERVICE TO MARK SUCCESSFUL COMPLETION OF PROJECTS COMMISSIONING IN THE FCT

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, today vehemently dismissed the recent coalition movement by opposition political parties, asserting that their agenda was driven by selfish ambition rather than a genuine desire to rescue Nigeria.

Speaking at a Thanksgiving service in Abuja on Sunday, July 6, 2005, to celebrate the successful completion of projects commissioning in the FCT by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to mark the President’s second year in office, Barrister Wike challenged the opposition's narrative.

"They want to rescue their stomach, not Nigeria," Wike declared, debunking claims that the opposition aims to save the nation. He further stated that Nigerians' anger is directed not at the current administration, but at the opposition for their past failures to deliver democratic dividends.

The Minister dared the opposition to present their scorecards, questioning their inconsistent political allegiances: "How can Nigerians not be angry with you? In 1999, you were in another party, in 2006, you moved to another party, in 2014, you moved to another party. In 2019, you moved back to another party. Now, in 2025, you are moving to another party to rescue who? You want to rescue your stomach. It’s not Nigeria you want to rescue. So let us tell ourselves the simple truth".

Barr. Wike highlighted what he described as the ‘opposition's hypocrisy’, noting their silence on national issues when they held power. "People had the opportunity to be in government for several years; people had the opportunity to bring infrastructure to their States; they didn’t do it. At that time, Nigerians were not angry. It is now that they are not in office that Nigerians are angry", he observed. He cited examples such as the bombing of trains during previous administrations and the accumulation of national debt without commensurate development.

Barrister Wike reiterated President Tinubu's commitment to good governance, citing positive changes already brought about, including the transparent handling of oil subsidy removal, which has significantly increased monthly allocations to states. He also pointed to progressive reforms within the FCT under President Tinubu's leadership, such as the appointment of dedicated workers as Permanent Secretaries, the withdrawal of the FCTA from the Treasury Single Account (TSA) to boost infrastructure funding, and the successful rehabilitation of the Bola Tinubu International Conference Centre, which has led to an increase in revenue for the FCTA.

Urging Nigerians to be discerning, the Minister appealed to the church to continue praying for President Tinubu and his cabinet, emphasizing that overcoming years of national challenges required patience and bold decisions. He expressed gratitude to the President for the opportunity to contribute to national growth, acknowledging the competent team assembled under the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Earlier, Venerable (Dr.) Benjamin Idume, Archdeacon and Vicar, St James Anglican Church, Asokoro, in his sermon, described Barrister Wike's appointment to the FCT as preordained and commended President Tinubu's visionary leadership. He lauded the Minister's performance, stating, "I thank God that your appointment was sustained and you have proved doubting Thomases wrong", and prayed for God to continue to guide and protect him.
The Thanksgiving service was attended by notable dignitaries, including the Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, Chairman, Senate Committee on FCT Area Councils and Ancillary Matters, Senator David Jimkuta, Speaker, Rivers State House of Assembly, Hon. Martins Amaehule, former Governors of Abia, Benue, and Enugu States, Okezie Ikpeazu, Samuel Ortom, and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi respectively, former Senator representing the FCT, Senator Philip Aduda, Executive Secretary, FCDA, Engr. Richard Yunana Dauda, other top officials of the FCTA, chairmen of FCT Area Councils, among others.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of an award of excellence as an Ambassador of Christ to the FCT Minister by the Anglican Church.

RABI MUSA UMAR
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, PRESS
(OFFICE OF THE HON. MINISTER)
06/07/2025
FCTA/ODP/PR/722

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

1. FCT Minister Barr Nyesom Wike (right) being presented with an award of Excellence as an Ambassador of Christ of the Anglican Church, by retired Anglican priest, Venerable Peter Okoromade while the Vicar, Anglican Church, Asokoro looks on, during the thanksgiving service in Abuja to celebrate the successful completion of projects commissioning in the FCT on Sunday

[2. ( R-L) FCT Minister Barr Nyesom Wike, Governor, Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, former Governors of Benue and Enugu states, Samuel Ortom and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi during the thanksgiving service in Abuja to celebrate the successful completion of projects commissioning in the FCT on Sunday

04/07/2025

PRESIDENT TINUBU REAFFIRMS ADMINISTRATION’S COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY-LED DEVELOPMENT

…AS HE COMMISSIONS SIXTEENTH PROJECT IN FCT TO CELEBRATE SECOND YEAR IN OFFICE

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to a community-led development approach that ensures equitable distribution of infrastructure across the country

The President stated this on Friday, July 4, 2025 while commissioning the newly rehabilitated 10-kilometer Aguma Palace-Radio Nigeria-New Market Road in Gwagwalada Area Council of the FCT.

Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu noted that the key project was nominated by the people of Gwagwalada Area Council, stressing that its subsequent delivery by the FCT Administration was a demonstration that government is listening to the people.

According to him, “What makes this moment even more remarkable is that the projects we are unveiling were not imposed from above. They were nominated by the people of Gwagwalada themselves, and this is the kind of democracy we believe in. One that listens, one that responds, and one that delivers. We are not just rehabilitating roads, we are rehabilitating trust”.

The President observed that the rural dwellers have watched development happen from a distance for far too long and described the rehabilitated road as "a corridor of dignity for the market women, a path to safety for our school children and a road to prosperity for the hard-working trader in Ggwagwalada Area Council”.

He lauded the transformation unfolding across the FCT as a product of deliberate and bold reform-oriented policies that have expanded the FCT’s revenue base, allowing the administration to invest in critical infrastructure like roads, schools, and hospitals.

The President commended the Minister of the FCT, Barrister Nyesom Wike, for his exceptional dedication and “no-holds-barred attitude” in driving progress, while expressing his appreciation for the Minister’s accomplishments.

Speaking earlier, the Minister of the FCT, Barr. Nyesom Wike highlighted the administration's emphasis on inclusive development, transparency, and performance-based governance, underscoring that the ongoing commissioning activities demonstrate accountability to the people.

He further lauded the use of local contractors, including OKMAS Nigeria Ltd, for completing the project in eight months, stating, "We believe in the capacity of local contractors. This administration has made it a policy to prioritize and support them".

The Minister also expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for creating an enabling environment for infrastructure renewal across the FCT, stating that the President, through his people-oriented policies, has positively impacted the lives of the people. “His administration has focused on impact, not politics. Regardless of distractions, the work is speaking for itself”, Barr. Wike said.

Delivering the vote of thanks, the Minister of State, FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud expressed profound gratitude to President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for their consistent support to the FCT, which, she said, has continued to inspire infrastructure development across the nation and the FCT.

Dr. Mahmoud also acknowledged the support and cooperation of the National Assembly leadership and the people of Gwagwalada, especially the traditional institution, stressing that the rehabilitation of the road will stimulate social harmony and improve the quality of life of the rural people in the FCT and the nation at large.

Providing the technical brief for the road project, the Coordinator, Satellite Towns Development Department (STDD), Hon. Abdulkadir Zulkiflu said the scope of work covered the construction of 10 kilometers of road network and the provision of accompanying engineering services, including the installation of solar streetlights.

He expressed appreciation to the Hon. Minister of FCT for entrusting the department with the successful delivery of the project, which he said reflects the Renewed Hope agenda of President Tinubu, while reaffirming the Minister’s commitment to equitable development across all Area Councils of the FCT.

The Managing Director, OKMAS Nigeria Ltd, the contractor to the project, Mr Owhonda Ebere also extended appreciation to the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), for its support and commitment to local content. He noted that the project, completed in 8 months, has revived socio-economic activity in the area, particularly around the once-declining market hub. “Your Excellency, this project restored hope to the people of Gwagwalada and stands as a testament to the capacity of indigenous contractors when given the opportunity”, he said.

RABI MUSA UMAR
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, PRESS
(OFFICE OF THE HON. MINISTER)
04/07/2025
FCTA/ODP/PR/721

PHOTO CAPTIONS:
1. R-L. Vice President Kashim Shettima(representing President Tinubu) FCT Minister, Barr Nyesom Wike, Minister of State, FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud at the commissioning of the newly rehabilitated Aguma palace-Radio Nigeria -New Market road in Gwagwalada Area Council on Friday

2. A section of the newly rehabilitated Aguma palace-Radio Nigeria -New Market road in Gwagwalada Area Council commissioned on Friday

03/07/2025

FCTA PRESS RELEASE

AGAIN, FCT MINISTER MEDIATES OVER PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS' STRIKE, MEETS WITH NUT, NANS, AREA COUNCIL CHAIRMEN

…EXPRESSES HOPE OF SWIFT RESOLUTION

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, on Thursday, July 3, 2025 met with leaders of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), and the Chairmen of the six Area Councils in the FCT, to resolve the protracted primary school teachers strike.

The meeting, which also had the Chief of Staff to the Minister, Hon. Chidi Amadi, FCTA Head of Civil Service, and the Permanent Secretary, FCTA Treasury, Alhaji Adamu Wanki, in attendance, was called at the instance of the Minister and held behind closed doors.

Addressing the media after the closed-door session, the Chief of Staff to the FCT Minister, Hon. Amadi, confirmed that far-reaching decisions were taken during the meeting and expressed confidence that the prolonged strike will be largely resolved soon.

According to him, "The Hon. Minister of the FCT today summoned a very special meeting to address the lingering issue that has impacted negatively on academic exercise within the FCT Area Councils. At the end of the meeting, I’m happy to announce that after exhaustive deliberation, the matter has been put to rest".

Key resolutions from the meeting, according to the Chief of Staff, include the Immediate Payment of Arrears of primary school teachers’ salary. He said approximately 70% of the owed salaries and arrears to teachers will be paid by channeling the accrued revenue of the Area Councils for the past six months.

Hon. Amadi stated that a special committee has been constituted to address the remaining outstanding issues and ensure a comprehensive resolution. The committee, he said, comprises three members from the NUT, two from the FCTA, one Area Council Chairman, and a representative from NANS. The committee is expected to submit its report within two weeks.

Hon. Amadi added that the FCT Minister has also taken responsibility to address the outstanding salary payment of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), ensuring that the Area Councils can return to full functionality.

The President of NANS, Olushola Ladoja, corroborated the agreement, stating, "During the meeting, the NUT proposed receiving 70% of the owed sum. “Based on calculations of the IGR, it was confirmed that this amount could be covered. The Honourable Minister then directed that the council chairmen’s IGR be used for this purpose and pleaded with the teachers to call off the strike".

“He also constituted a committee, which includes NANS, to look into other unresolved demands within two weeks”, Ladoja added.

He commended the Minister’s intervention, despite concerns about interference with the autonomy of the Area Councils.

Chairman of Abaji Area Council, Hon. Abubakar Umar Abdullahi, speaking on behalf of his colleagues, said the decision to withdraw 10% of the Area Councils’ internally generated revenue (IGR) for the next six months to settle these payments, though "painful", was accepted in good faith by the Area Council Chairmen in the interest of peace and the education of the children.

He expressed optimism for a swift return to normalcy. "We hope that before the close of work today, the union will call off the strike, and by tomorrow, our children will return to school”, he said.

The FCT NUT Chairman, Comrade Abdullahi Mohammed Shafa, stated the need to consult with the internal structure of the union, including the State Trustees, the Standing Committee, and the State Wing Executive Council, before taking a final decision on calling off the strike.

All chairmen of the six Area Councils were in attendance.

RABI MUSA UMAR

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, PRESS

(OFFICE OF THE HON. MINISTER)

03/07/2025

FCTA/ODP/PR/720

1. FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike making a remark during the meeting with the leadership of NUT, NANS and Area Council Chairmen at his official residence in Life Camp, Abuja...Thursday

2. Stakeholders of the NUT and NANS during a meeting with the FCT Minister, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike to resolve the protracted primary school teachers strike in Abuja,Thursday.

03/07/2025

FCTA PRESS RELEASE
FCT MINISTER DEFENDS INVESTMENT IN BOLA TINUBU INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE CENTRE

…CITES MASSIVE REVENUE BOOST

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has defended the FCT Administration's ₦39 billion investment in the rehabilitation of the Bola Tinubu International Conference Centre (BTICC), stating that the investment was already yielding substantial returns since the re-commissioning of the centre on June 10, 2025.

Speaking during his monthly media chat at his Life Camp Residence on Thursday, July 3, 2025, Barr. Wike disclosed that the facility has generated a remarkable N650 million in just three weeks after its reopening, a stark contrast to the N50 million per annum previously paid by the facility's former operator, representing a monumental shift in its financial performance.

"The man they gave it to was paying N50 million every year to the FCTA. As I speak to you, that place was commissioned on June 10. Within three weeks, we have realized a revenue of N650 million. But this was somebody giving us N50 million a year. That is the country we were in", Barr. Wike stated.

The Minister also justified naming the facility after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, emphasizing the President's pivotal leadership in ensuring the long-overdue rehabilitation of the centre. He drew parallels with other prominent national facilities named after distinguished personalities who did not personally construct them, such as the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, the Moshood Abiola International Stadium, and the Ibrahim Babangida Golf and Country Club.

Describing the revamped BTICC as a "window into the country," Barrister Wike proudly announced that the centre was now fully booked until 2027, a testament to the public's appreciation for quality infrastructure.

Responding to concerns over the possibility of renaming the centre by another administration in the future, the Minister expressed confidence that the name will stand the test of time. He pointed out that the centre was not renamed from an existing dedication.

“This is not the first time a national facility has been named in honour of a living leader. We should develop a culture of celebrating our patriotic citizens while they are still alive”, he said.

Furthermore, the Minister defended the FCDA's construction of an office annex for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), clarifying that the provision of public buildings in the FCT was a core responsibility of the FCTA. He dismissed criticisms as unfounded, stating, "To the glory of God, the Chairman, Prof. Mahmoud Yakubu did say that every of their structures and buildings has always been done by the FCDA. All public buildings have been carried out by FCDA. It has nothing to do with interfering with their work. Even where they are today was built by the FCDA. So, there is nothing new about FCDA constructing an office space and handing it over to them".

Reflecting on the FCT Administration's achievements, particularly the unprecedented commissioning of completed infrastructure projects, Barr. Wike expressed optimism that these accomplishments would be surpassed in the coming year. He acknowledged numerous requests from FCT communities for more projects, stating his genuine satisfaction in addressing the needs of the people.

Addressing the protracted strike by FCT primary school teachers over the unpaid new minimum wage, the FCT Minister outlined steps taken to resolve the issue, including engaging with the leadership of the NUT, Council Chairmen, and NANS representatives. He detailed efforts by the FCTA to offset arrears, including withholding a percentage of Area Councils' IGR, but emphasized the limitations due to the autonomy of the Area Councils.

The Minister also spoke on the FCTA workforce and the substantial financial implications on salary payments, which he noted exceed the FCT's federal allocation. He criticized the recent strike action and the locking of his office gate by the Joint Union of FCTA workers, describing it as unfortunate.

Barr. Wike underscored the financial implications of the minimum wage increment and the difficulty of simultaneously addressing promotion demands and vital infrastructure provision, saying, "The government cannot take all its funds for payment of salaries. Where does government get the money from? It means there will be no schools, and there will be no roads. We need more money to add to pay the salaries", he stated, adding that he would not tolerate threats or intimidation without proper official communication.

On the issue of beggars and "one-chance" taxi operators in the FCT, Barr Wike affirmed that the Administration, in collaboration with security agencies, has made significant progress in reversing the trend, acknowledging that complete eradication of crime is challenging while highlighting notable improvements.

Addressing allegations of land allocations to his sons, the Minister dismissed them as baseless and politically motivated, pointing to detractors from Adamawa State. He challenged accusers to provide empirical evidence, stating that he was unconcerned by such distractions. Regarding a purported committee set up by President Tinubu to investigate these claims, the Minister advised against waiting for the committee's findings, emphasizing the President's focus on substantive matters.

On his reconciliation with the suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, Barr. Wike reiterated that peace has returned to the state, and the details of the peace agreement were not necessary.

Barr. Wike also dismissed the plot by a coalition of opposition political parties to oust the current government as driven by selfish interests, asserting that Nigerians were discerning and would not be swayed by mere propaganda. While acknowledging national challenges, he affirmed President Tinubu's genuine commitment to addressing the challenges through bold and decisive steps.

RABI MUSA UMAR
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, PRESS
(OFFICE OF THE HON. MINISTER)
03/07/2025
FCTA/ODP/PR/719

FCT Minister Barr Ezenwo Nyesom Wike during the July, 2025 Media Parley in his Life Camp official residence, Abuja on Thursday

02/07/2025

FCTA PRESS RELEASE

“WE ARE BUILDING CAPACITY, CREATING JOBS” – PRESIDENT TINUBU

…AS HE COMMISSIONS OVER 16 KILOMETER ROAD IN BWARI AREA COUNCIL

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated his administration's commitment to empowering indigenous contractors and creating job opportunities for Nigerians through the provision of vital infrastructure.

The President stated this in Abuja on Tuesday, July 2, 2025, while commissioning the newly completed 16.4 kilometers Ushafa, War College, Army Check and other Ancillary Roads within the Bwari Area Council in the FCT.

Represented by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu observed that the road project was executed by an indigenous firm, Abdul Val Nigeria Limited, saying it underscores the Federal Government's deliberate policy to build the capacity of local contractors.

According to him, “We are not just building roads, we are building capacity. We are creating jobs. We are fostering a sense of ownership and pride within our communities. And above all, we are demonstrating unequivocally that, given the right environment, Nigerian contractors can deliver infrastructure that rivals the best in the world”.

The President who also described the completion of the project as a significant development success, said it showcases the capability of the Nigerian spirit to deliver excellence. He said the dualized and upgraded roads will alleviate traffic congestion, stimulate economic activities, improve access to education and healthcare, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents of Ushafa, Bwari, and surrounding communities.

The President further reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to developing a modern and functional capital city where every district, council, and ward is connected and empowered, stating, “No part of the FCT is going to be relegated. Development must be all-encompassing. It is only then that we can say with confidence that Abuja works. And indeed, Abuja is working”.

He said the completion of the road and numerous others across the nation, is a tangible expression of the commitment of the government to inclusive growth and sustainable development and called on all Nigerians to join hands with the government in building a Nigeria where every business thrives and every citizen enjoys a life of dignity and opportunity.

President Tinubu also commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, CON, for his dedication to ensuring that no community in the FCT is left behind, saying “His vision of an integrated capital city where development is not confined to the city centre, but extended to the suburbs and satellite communities, aligns perfectly with the Abuja masterplan”.

Earlier, FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, had expressed profound gratitude to President Tinubu for his unprecedented commitment to the development of the satellite towns, saying that it was the first time a sitting President, Vice President, or other high-ranking officials had visited an Area Council to commission a project.

"This is the first time a sitting President, a Vice President will go to the Satellite Towns to identify with them, to tell the people of the Satellite Towns that as we care for the city, so also we care for you. It is unprecedented. It has never happened. And this shows the love you have for the Satellite Towns residents. I want to thank you most sincerely”, Barrister Wike stated.

The FCT Minister acknowledged his initial doubts about the capacity of the indigenous contractor, Abdulval Nigeria Limited, for a project of this magnitude, and stated that he became convinced only after personally visiting the site and observing the company’s equipment.

“I personally visited the site multiple times — on Sundays, Saturdays, over 15 times — to ensure the job was done. And today, the road is ready for commissioning”, the Minister said.

The Minister stressed the administration’s commitment to promoting local content, saying the successful delivery of the project by a local contractor reinforces trust in the capacity of Nigerians when properly supported.

He also applauded the Coordinator of the Satellite Towns Development Department (STDD), Abdulkadir Zulkiflu, describing the young appointee as hardworking and resilient. “He has not had one full night of sleep since this project started. I thank him, and if he has a wife, I apologize to her,” the Minister joked, drawing laughter from the crowd.

Barr. Wike stated that the completion of the road will significantly ease commuting for residents living in satellite towns, enabling them to access the city with relative ease.

The Minister also took a swipe at those he described as expired politicians who have refused to see anything good in the current administration, saying that the government will continue to showcase its achievements for all to see.

According to him, “A lot of people, like those who don't have vision, who are politically expired, like those since 1999, they have belonged to over ten political parties. Let them see what we are doing. I thank God Today is the 15th day. I thank God. Wherever they are, whichever TV channel they want to watch, they will see Mr. President, what you are doing every day”.

He thanked Vice President Kashim Shettima for his consistent encouragement and support in the discharge of his job, and reaffirmed his support for President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Delivering the vote of thanks, Minister of State, FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud extended gratitude to President Tinubu, the National Assembly and the FCT Minister for their vision and dedication to the development of the FCT and improving the living condition of those in the rural areas.

The Coordinator, Abuja Satellite Towns Development Department, Hon. Zulkiflu, while providing a technical brief of the upgraded Ushafa/War College/Army Checkpoint Road, said the scope of work encompasses the provision of box culverts, concrete line drains, construction of walkway and provision of solar street lights, among other engineering services. He appreciated the FCT Minister for his vision in the development of the satellite towns of the FCT and thanked him for his support and guidance.

RABI MUSA UMAR

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, PRESS

(OFFICE OF THE HON. MINISTER)

02/07/2025

FCTA/ODP/PR/718

PHOTO CAPTION:

1: (R-L) Vice President Kashim Shettima (representative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu), FCT Minister, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike and Minister of State, FCT Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, during the commissioning of the newly completed 16.4 kilometer Ushafa, Army Checkpoint, War College and other Ancillary Roads within the Bwari Area Council...Tuesday

2. The newly completed 16.4 kilometer Ushafa, Army Checkpoint, War College and other Ancillary Roads within the Bwari Area Council...Tuesday

3. Vice President Kashim Shettima (R), representative of President Bola Tinubu, echanging pleasantries with the FCT Minister, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, during the commissioning of the newly completed 16.4 kilometer Ushafa, Army Checkpoint, War College and other Ancillary Roads within the Bwari Area Council Tuesday.

01/07/2025

FCTA PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT TINUBU OPENS UP DAKIBIYU DISTRICT IN FCC AS HE COMMISSIONS COLLECTOR ROAD CN8

…REITERATES ADMINISTRATION’S COMMITMENT TO URBAN RENEWAL AND ECONOMIC REVITALIZATION

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu today, Tuesday, July 1, 2025 commenced the opening of the Dakibiyu district in the Federal Capital Territory with the commissioning of the collector road CN8 – the Asuquo Okon Way and other connecting routes in the district.

In his address at the commissioning ceremony, the President who was represented by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shetima reiterated the commitment of his administration to urban renewal and economic revitalization.

The President said, “There is no louder proof of a government's seriousness than the modernization of its cities. When a city works, when its roads are paved, when its lights are on, and when its traffic flows smoothly, it tells the world that its government is not just present but purposeful”.

President Tinubu who described infrastructure as not just concrete and steel but the most persuasive advertisement of leadership, order, and vision, said a modern city inspires confidence, attracts investment, and most importantly, restores the dignity of those who call it home, adding that the opening of Dakibiyu district, through the commissioning of the collector road CN8, was a grand reassurance that cities must work for their people and that a functioning capital is the foundation upon which a functioning nation is built.

While commending the FCT Minister for his steadfastness in the development of the FCT, the President stressed that opening of the district was a bold signature of the Administration’s commitment to urban renewal and economic revitalization.
“The capital of this great nation must reflect the strength and dignity of all who call it home. We are determined to ensure that development knows no postcode, that governance does not discriminate, and that the dignity of our citizens is not defined by their geography.

“I must, at this point, pay tribute to the Honorable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Nyesom Wike, whose sense of urgency in the ex*****on of these projects is well known to Nigerians. We thank you and your entire team in the FCTA for this outstanding work”, the Minister said.

He pledged more support for the FCTA, saying, “This administration remains steadfast in its support for the FCTA. We will continue to provide the resources, policy backing, and institutional cooperation needed to ensure that projects like this are delivered on time and to the highest standards”.

Earlier, the FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, had expressed deep appreciation to President Tinubu for his unwavering support for the infrastructure development drive of the FCT Administration .

The Minister who noted that the ceremony marked the 14th project commissioned so far, in celebration of the President’s second year in office, said the presence of the President at each event is a testament to his commitment to improving the lives of residents of the Federal Capital Territory.

While acknowledging the patience and resilience of attendees who braved the day’s inclement weather to witness the event, the Minister reflected on how the project came to be, recalling the moment he was shown the proposed site for the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal.

“Your Excellency, the road is good now. When we wanted to find a land for the construction of the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal and I was told by the Director of Lands that there was a space. I said, let me go and see the place. Your Excellency, you can't believe that as a city we could have such terrible, horrible roads.

“And through the Federal Executive Council, by your support, this contract was awarded last year, September, and we flagged it off October last year. Today, we are commissioning this.

“Your Excellency there's no talking too much today, but to thank you for your continued support, and we continue to solicit for more support”, he added.

He stressed that the commissioning of the road was part of the broader urban renewal and infrastructure agenda being aggressively pursued by the FCT Administration under the leadership of President Tinubu.

In her vote of thanks, The FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, said that the commissioning of the Collector Road CN8 (Asuquo Okon Way) and other connecting roads in Dakibiyu District was another milestone in the FCTA’s journey toward building a more connected, efficient, and inclusive capital city.

She highlighted the support of President Tinubu, which, she said, has been instrumental in translating the long-standing development aspirations into tangible realities for residents.

In the project overview, Executive Secretary FCDA, Engr. Richard Yunana Dauda, noted that the newly completed infrastructure represents a significant milestone in the ongoing ex*****on of the FCT Master Plan, adding that the project was designed to improve connectivity and support future developments across key districts in the Federal Capital City.

RABI MUSA UMAR
ASSISTANT DIRECTOR, PRESS
(OFFICE OF THE HON. MINISTER)
01/07/2025
FCTA/ODP/PR/717

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

1: L-R) Minister of State FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, Vice President Kashim Shettima (representing President Tinubu), FCT Minister Barr Nyesom Wike, Chairman Senate Committee on FCT Area Council, Sen. David Jimkuta during the commissioning of the collector road CN8 (Asuquo Okon Way) in Dakibiyu on Tuesday

2: The newly constructed Collector road CN8 (Asuquo Okon Way) on Tuesday

3: R-L) Minister of State FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, Vice President Kashim Shettima, FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, Chairman of the Senate Committee on FCT Area Council, David Jimkuta and MD, O.K Osokariari Nigeria Ltd, Mr. O.K Osokariari at the commissioning of the newly constructed Collector road CN8 (Asuquo Okon Way) in Dakibiyu on Tuesday

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