Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, says the long-awaited relocation of Apo Mechanics and traders to Wassa has finally become a reality under the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
Wike stated this on Thursday after inspecting ongoing infrastructure projects across Abuja, including the Wassa informal sector roads, Road CN2 in Katampe, OSEX Main Carriageways and Gaduwa Road.
The minister described the Wassa development as a major achievement, noting that previous administrations had failed to resolve the relocation challenge for years.
“This is another promise made and another promise fulfilled. The issue of Apo Mechanics relocation has been a thorny issue since the administration of the FCT, but thank God, under the administration of Bola Tinubu, it is no longer a promise; it is now a fulfilled promise,” he said.
According to him, road construction within the Wassa informal sector is nearing completion, while installation of solar-powered streetlights and water facilities will commence soon to support businesses and residents in the area.
Wike said the new development would create a better business environment for mechanics, artisans and traders, while also boosting the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of the FCT through increased commercial activities.
“If business is taking place, we will collect revenue. That will increase the IGR of the FCT. We have provided the infrastructure needed; it is now left for people to come in and establish their businesses,” he added.
At the OSEX Main Carriageway project site, the minister expressed satisfaction with the speed and quality of work, particularly the completion of a major bridge which, according to him, surpassed expectations.
“I was shocked that the bridge had been launched because when we were there last, they said in two to three weeks they would complete it and I didn’t believe it,” Wike stated.
He also directed the extension of the OSEX II road project to Wassa Junction, covering about 10 kilometres, to improve connectivity and ease movement within the district.
The minister further praised the quality of work on the Road CN2 project near Gishiri, where contractors have already commenced installation of streetlights and walkways.
“The projects we inspected today are almost 100 per cent completed. The quality of work is impressive,” he said.
Wike also defended the FCT Administration’s policy on land allocation, insisting that allocations to investors, diplomats and media organisations were lawful and necessary for development.
According to him, media organisations criticising government allocations had themselves benefited from similar allocations in the past.
“Media organisations are businesses, not charity organisations. Government allocated land to some of them and they are carrying out their businesses there,” he said.
He maintained that the administration does not sell land but allocates it to individuals and organisations willing to develop such properties within approved timelines.
“We allocate land for development. If the allottees fail to develop it within the stipulated time, government has the right to take it back,” the minister added.