The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former Governor of Rivers State, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has declared that no one can look at him or the state of Rivers and describe it as hopeless. He gave this assurance while reinforcing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to the safety, progress, and welfare of residents of Abuja and the entire country.
Wike made the remarks during the commissioning ceremony of the newly completed Arterial Road N5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way), which stretches from Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III (RR3). The event was officially performed on behalf of President Tinubu by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume.
Addressing the gathering, Wike said:
> “I can assure everybody, particularly Abuja residents, that the kind of development you will witness under President Bola Tinubu’s administration will leave you convinced that there are indeed leaders who genuinely mean well for this country.”
He further expressed personal gratitude, saying:
> “Mr. President, I must say I feel lucky as a politician. Every time we hold an event in Abuja, I am honored by the presence of friends from across the country—Rivers, Abia, Enugu, Sokoto, Cross River—you name it. Their consistent support is a testament to the unity we strive for.”
Wike praised the people of Rivers State and all Nigerians who have supported him and President Tinubu’s vision, saying:
> “Let me, with your kind permission, thank the people of Rivers State and all Nigerians. Those of you present, kindly take a bow before Mr. President. These individuals deserve commendation. Their efforts have not gone unnoticed. It’s often said, ‘a man is strong, a man is strong,’ but truly, it is because of the people around him. Alone, I might be overlooked, but with such backing, no one can look at me and say Rivers State has no hope. I don’t believe that person exists.”
Reflecting on the newly commissioned road project, Wike noted that the Arterial Road N5 was approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) in September 2023 and officially flagged off in October of the same year. He confirmed that the road construction was split into two phases, with the first phase now completed and inaugurated.
He expressed optimism about the second phase, which will link the road to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport:
> “By the grace of God, we aim to commission Phase 2 before the year ends. We have already initiated dialogue with local communities along the route to ensure smooth progress.”
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Senator Akume described the Arterial Road N5 as a symbol of what is achievable when visionary leadership is matched with decisive action.
> “This road, named after the visionary Chief Obafemi Awolowo, is a reflection of our commitment to modern infrastructure that enhances the daily lives of citizens. It ensures seamless connectivity for both vehicular and pedestrian traffic.”
He commended Minister Wike and the entire FCT administration for their effective execution of the project and their commitment to aligning with the national vision for infrastructural transformation.
> “With this commissioning, traffic congestion in Dape, Gwarinpa 1, Kado, Karsana, Idu, and Mbora will significantly reduce. It will also decongest the busy Life Camp Junction and its surrounding areas.”
Akume concluded by urging residents to take ownership of the project:
> “To Abuja residents and indeed all Nigerians—this is your road. Own it, use it responsibly, protect it, and take pride in this shared achievement.”
