President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to empowering indigenous contractors and creating job opportunities for Nigerians through infrastructure development.
This assurance was made on Tuesday, July 2, 2025, as the President—represented by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima—commissioned a 16.4-kilometer stretch of road covering Ushafa, War College, Army Checkpoint, and other ancillary routes in Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Speaking at the event, the President emphasized that the road project, executed by the indigenous firm Abdul Val Nigeria Limited, is a testament to his administration’s deliberate strategy to promote local content, stimulate economic activities, and uplift communities.
“We are not just building roads, we are building capacity. We are creating jobs. We are fostering a sense of ownership and pride within our communities,” President Tinubu declared. “Given the right environment, Nigerian contractors can deliver infrastructure that rivals the best in the world.”
Describing the completed road as a symbol of developmental success, the President noted that the dualized and upgraded road network will alleviate traffic congestion, enhance access to education and healthcare, and significantly improve the quality of life for residents of Bwari and its environs.
He further stressed that his administration remains committed to an all-inclusive developmental strategy that ensures no district or ward in the FCT is left behind.
“No part of the FCT is going to be relegated. Development must be all-encompassing. It is only then that we can say with confidence that Abuja works. And indeed, Abuja is working,” he said.
Commending the Minister of the FCT, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, for his dedication to the comprehensive development of the territory, President Tinubu lauded Wike’s commitment to integrating satellite towns into the city’s broader development agenda.
Earlier in his remarks, FCT Minister Wike expressed deep gratitude to President Tinubu, describing the commissioning as historic.
“This is the first time a sitting President or Vice President has come to the satellite towns to commission a project. It has never happened before, and it shows the love this administration has for all residents, not just those in the city centre,” he said.
Wike admitted that he initially doubted the capacity of Abdul Val Nigeria Limited to handle the project but was convinced after multiple visits to the site.
“I personally visited over 15 times, even on weekends, to ensure the job was done. Today, the road is ready for commissioning,” he said.
Reaffirming the administration’s support for local contractors, the Minister noted that the project’s success has demonstrated the capability of Nigerian firms when provided with adequate support.
He also praised the Coordinator of the Satellite Towns Development Department (STDD), Hon. Abdulkadir Zulkiflu, for his dedication and hard work.
“He hasn’t had a full night’s sleep since the project began. If he has a wife, I apologize to her,” Wike quipped, to the amusement of the audience.
In a pointed remark, the Minister criticized “expired politicians” who, according to him, fail to recognize the achievements of the current administration.
“Let them see what we’re doing. Even if they switch TV channels, they’ll still see the impact of Mr. President’s work,” he asserted.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, thanked President Tinubu, the National Assembly, and Minister Wike for their continued efforts in uplifting rural communities and fostering inclusive development.
Providing a technical overview of the project, Hon. Zulkiflu noted that the road includes box culverts, concrete line drains, walkways, and solar-powered street lights. He expressed appreciation to the FCT Minister for his unwavering support and vision for satellite town development.
The newly commissioned road project marks a significant milestone in the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, showcasing a renewed focus on local capacity, inclusive governance, and tangible development.
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