President Bola Tinubu officially commissioned the newly completed Arterial Road N16 in Abuja on Wednesday, expressing readiness to welcome the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, into the All Progressives Congress (APC) whenever he decides to join. The road, which connects key areas in the Maitama District, was executed under Wike’s leadership.
During the commissioning ceremony, President Tinubu praised Wike’s collaborative efforts in governance and commended him for successfully managing the relocation of local communities affected by the project with peace and fair compensation. “Teamwork is the hallmark of good leadership,” he stated, acknowledging the contributions of traditional rulers and local communities to the development.
With a touch of humor, Tinubu addressed Wike’s political alignment, saying, “He’s not a member of my party, not yet. But the day he changes his mind and registers with the Progressives, we will welcome him because we will enjoy him singing as ‘e dey sweet us’.”
The President emphasized that the newly constructed road marks significant progress in Nigeria’s infrastructural development and aligns with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda. “What was once a missing link is now a modern, functional, and durable infrastructure,” he said, highlighting its role in easing traffic congestion and stimulating business growth in the capital.
Tinubu reiterated that infrastructure development is crucial for Nigeria’s overall progress and pledged to continue investing in vital sectors such as transportation, healthcare, and digital development. “Infrastructural investments are the bedrock of national competitiveness, growth, social integration, and economic opportunity.”
In response, Wike commended President Tinubu for restoring public trust in government and fostering contractor confidence, leading to the rapid completion of key infrastructure projects in the FCT. “This road was awarded by the administration. It reflects a commitment to visible development,” he noted.
The Minister highlighted the road’s importance, as it connects critical judicial and administrative zones, enhancing accessibility to pivotal institutions such as the Court of Appeal and the Federal High Court.
Engr. Richard Yunana Dauda, Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), provided a technical overview of the project, revealing that the 3.7-kilometer arterial road features a six-lane dual carriageway with modern engineering infrastructure.
As the ceremony concluded, Wike remarked on the impact of the Tinubu administration’s projects, stating that they have effectively countered opposition movements and have transformed public perception. “Your good works have defeated the coalition,” he asserted, encouraging widespread visibility of the government’s initiatives through media coverage.
The commissioning underscores the Nigerian government’s focused efforts to improve urban infrastructure and foster political collaboration in the nation’s capital.