Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, on Wednesday, emphasized the intensity of his work ethic, declaring that anyone who can keep up with him on the job can survive in any work environment. He made these remarks during the official commissioning of the newly dualised and upgraded 16.4-kilometre Ushafa-War College-Army checkpoint road and other adjoining routes in Bwari Area Council, Abuja.
Addressing attendees at the event, Wike recounted the rigorous due diligence process he carried out before approving the project. He expressed initial skepticism when he learned that a relatively unknown local contractor, Abdul Val, was in charge of the road construction.
“When I first heard the contractor’s name, I asked, ‘Who is Abdul Val?’ I’ve never heard of this name in all my years in road construction,” Wike remarked. “Given my experience and the strategic importance of road infrastructure in attracting investors and opening up communities, I was naturally cautious.”
Wike explained that he ordered his Chief of Staff to verify the contractor’s credentials and inspect the company’s equipment. Although initial reports suggested that the contractor had some equipment, Wike insisted on visiting the site himself for personal confirmation. Eventually satisfied, he approved the project — citing the administration’s commitment to promoting local content and empowering indigenous contractors.
The minister revealed his hands-on approach throughout the project’s execution, noting that he visited the site over 15 times in just 15 months, often during weekends. “I would call the contractor even on Sundays to check on progress. I told him plainly, if this road isn’t completed in time for Mr. President to inaugurate it in his second year in office, there would be serious consequences.”
Wike used the moment to highlight the demanding standards he imposes on those who work with him. “Working with me is not easy,” he said. “Anyone who survives working with me can work anywhere in the world.”
He singled out the Coordinator of the Satellite Towns Development Department (STDD) for praise, describing him as a young man who had been tested through intense oversight and has proven himself. “I pity him,” Wike joked. “I don’t know if he has a wife, but if he does, I apologise to her. The pressure must have been overwhelming. But in the end, it paid off.”
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu at the commissioning, described the road as a transformational project. He reflected on the past difficulties faced by commuters on the route, noting that it had long been a source of frustration.
“For too long, the journey between Ushafa and the War College-Army checkpoint tested the endurance of residents,” Shettima said. “Today, that narrative changes. This road will ease traffic, rejuvenate local economies, improve access to essential services, and ultimately enhance the lives of people in Ushafa, Bwari, and surrounding communities.”
The commissioning marks a significant milestone in the FCT’s infrastructure development efforts and demonstrates the administration’s dedication to delivering impactful projects with accountability and urgency.
