President Bola Tinubu has praised the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, for his efforts in transforming Abuja through the execution of major infrastructure projects, saying the minister has lived up to the confidence placed in him.
The President, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, gave the commendation on Friday during the commissioning of Collector Road CN2, also known as Emmanuel Okanla Boulevard, alongside other road networks in the Katampe District of the FCT.
Tinubu said Wike’s performance since assuming office had demonstrated his commitment to delivering visible development across the nation’s capital.
“When I gave him the assignment to make Abuja a true capital city, I knew his track records. Wike, you have not disappointed Mr President,” Tinubu said.
He commended the minister for turning previously neglected roads into modern boulevards, while also delivering projects in key areas such as water supply and judicial infrastructure.
“From transforming abandoned roads into new boulevards, to delivering water projects and judicial quarters, you work day and night. You do not give excuses; you give results. The people of the FCT call you ‘Mr Project’ for a reason,” the President added.
The commissioning marked the eighth day of a series of infrastructure project inaugurations by the FCT Administration, highlighting completed projects under the current administration.
Tinubu described the newly completed Katampe road project as a reflection of the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure, enhancing security and restoring public confidence through practical development.
He noted that the installation of solar-powered street lights across major routes had improved security and boosted economic activities within Abuja.
“We have installed solar street lights, and today Katampe is bright at night. Abuja’s city life is coming back, and criminal hideouts are disappearing. This is exactly what good governance delivers: security, mobility and dignity,” he said.
The President added that the project represented hope and showed that the Renewed Hope Agenda was producing tangible results for Nigerians.
Speaking at the event, Wike explained that the Katampe road project was initiated to address an infrastructure gap identified after the completion of neighbouring road networks.
He recalled that the gap became noticeable after the commissioning of the Gishiri road and bridge linking Maitama, noting that the FCT Administration moved quickly to provide a connecting route.
“Last year, when Mr President commissioned the Gishiri road and the bridge linking Maitama, this road did not even exist. We identified the missing link and immediately moved to address it because infrastructure must be holistic,” Wike said.
The minister said the completed project had already attracted real estate investments to Katampe, creating new opportunities and stimulating economic activities in the area.
He rejected claims that development was not taking place in the country, pointing to the growing number of construction projects and investments across Abuja.
“People say nothing is happening in Nigeria, but when you look around Abuja and see construction sites everywhere, new buildings emerging daily and businesses investing heavily, the evidence speaks for itself,” he said.
Wike stressed that infrastructure development remains a major driver of economic growth and employment, adding that thousands of Nigerians had benefited directly and indirectly from ongoing projects across the FCT.
He also highlighted the administration’s efforts to extend development beyond the city centre to satellite communities, citing the recently completed road linking Tungan-Madaki communities.
According to him, the projects are helping residents of underserved areas gain better access to education, healthcare, business opportunities and other essential services.
The minister disclosed that another major milestone would be recorded on Monday with the commissioning of a strategic water supply project in Karu aimed at improving access to potable water in satellite towns.
The Minister of State for the FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, in her vote of thanks, said the project reflected President Tinubu’s vision of using infrastructure to drive economic growth, social inclusion and improved living standards.
She commended the President, members of the National Assembly, Wike, contractors, engineers and community leaders for their roles in ensuring the successful completion of the project.
Earlier, the Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Richard Dauda, revealed that the road project covers a 3.9-kilometre network equipped with underground drainage systems, water pipelines, sewer infrastructure, telecommunications ducts, solar-powered streetlights, pedestrian walkways and green areas.
Dauda said the project would improve connectivity between Katampe, Mabushi, Jahi, Maitama and surrounding districts while creating new opportunities for residential and commercial development.
Tinubu Commends Wike’s Efforts in Transforming Abuja, Says FCT Minister Has Delivered on Mandate
