President Bola Tinubu praised the Nyesom Wike-led Federal Capital Territory Administration for enhancing the territory’s appeal for business, housing, and investment during an inauguration ceremony in Abuja on Tuesday.
At the event, Tinubu officially launched the right-hand service carriageway of the Inter Northern Expressway, extending from Ring Road III to the Outer Northern Expressway (ONEX or Murtala Mohammed Expressway). This project was one of ten inaugurated to celebrate Tinubu’s second year in office, a testament to his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development.
Represented by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Tinubu described the newly constructed Inner Outer Expressway (INEX) as a “critical piece” of the Federal Territory Master Plan. He emphasized the project’s significance in easing traffic, enhancing connectivity, and improving urban mobility for millions of commuters, residents, and businesses in the city.
“What you have contributed is something larger than the roadway; you’ve contributed to the future of our capital,” he said, highlighting the road’s role as a symbol of progress in line with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda—an initiative focused on building infrastructure that unlocks economic potential and promotes sustainable development.
As traffic volumes rise in the FCT and surrounding satellite towns, Tinubu noted that the continuous expansion and maintenance of vital routes is essential. He asserted that the new road would not only connect key junctions but also promote safer and faster movement within Abuja’s transportation corridors, further opening opportunities for businesses and housing.
“Projects like these demonstrate what we can achieve when planning, execution, and leadership align with purpose,” he added, reiterating the administration’s commitment to replicating such initiatives across Nigeria.
Minister Wike shared details about the road’s background, noting that it was awarded in 2014 for N7 billion but completed at a cost of N31 billion due to inflation and project variations under the current administration. He praised Tinubu for ensuring the project’s completion in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to finalize ongoing projects that positively impact people’s lives and the economy.
Wike also highlighted the potential of the nearby Industrial Park, which is anticipated to create 40,000 direct jobs, expressing optimism for the future of Abuja’s development. He emphasized that road infrastructure is crucial for economic growth, stating, “Investors will come when there are roads,” and acknowledged Tinubu’s contributions toward Abuja’s progress.
FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, echoed these sentiments, noting that the project reflects the Tinubu administration’s dedication to impactful governance. Meanwhile, Mr. Richard Dauda, acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory Development Authority, provided insights into the INEX’s connection to the master plan for Abuja, underscoring its significance as a major road development project in the capital.