In a bid to transform the infrastructure landscape and enhance the quality of life for residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Minister Nyesom Wike has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the timely completion of critical road projects across the territory. During a recent inspection tour on Saturday, October 4, 2025, Wike assessed the progress of two major infrastructure projects: the Wuye to Ring Road II Road and the dual carriageway connecting Airport Road to Kuje. The minister’s assurances come as part of the broader Renewed Hope Agenda championed by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which seeks to drive development, improve urban services, and ensure balanced growth across the FCT’s six area councils.
During his inspection, Wike expressed optimism about the significant progress made on the Airport–Kuje dual carriageway, a project that has been a focal point for residents of Kuje and its environs. He highlighted the advancements in critical aspects of the construction, such as rock blasting and landscape preparation, which have paved the way for smoother execution of the project. The minister assured residents that the road, designed to be at least eight lanes wide, would be completed before the third anniversary of President Tinubu’s administration in May 2026. This ambitious timeline underscores the administration’s dedication to delivering transformative infrastructure projects that will redefine connectivity and accessibility in the FCT.
Wike commended the contractor, Arab Contractors, for the high quality of work on the Airport–Kuje dual carriageway. He emphasized that the project’s completion would drastically reduce travel time, enabling residents to reach the city center in just 15 to 20 minutes. This development, he noted, would eliminate the need for Kuje residents to relocate to urban centers to enjoy the benefits of city living. “By the time this road is commissioned, which is not less than eight lanes, it won’t take 15 to 20 minutes to reach the city center. That means residents of Kuje no longer need to relocate to the city before enjoying urban living. That is what development and the Renewed Hope Agenda are all about,” Wike stated. The dual carriageway is expected to not only improve transportation but also spur economic growth by opening up new housing and commercial opportunities in Kuje and surrounding areas.
Beyond road infrastructure, the minister addressed other pressing concerns affecting the FCT, including security and waste management. Wike reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving security across Abuja and its satellite towns. While acknowledging that isolated incidents occur, he maintained that Abuja remains one of Nigeria’s safest cities, crediting the efforts of security agencies. He linked ongoing infrastructure initiatives, such as the “Light Up Abuja” project, to enhanced security measures. The initiative, which involves installing streetlights across the city, is designed to not only beautify the capital but also improve visibility and safety, particularly at night. “Light Up Abuja is not just to beautify the city but also to enhance security. Security challenges happen everywhere, even in developed countries like the U.S. But Abuja has been relatively safe, and security agencies deserve credit,” Wike remarked.
The minister’s inspection also brought attention to the persistent challenge of indiscriminate refuse dumping along major corridors, including Airport Road and the Nyanya-Karshi axis. Wike expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of waste management in these areas but assured residents that the FCT Administration is taking decisive steps to address the issue. He disclosed that a new waste disposal contract would be awarded within the next two weeks, emphasizing that only competent contractors with the necessary capacity would be engaged. “We are not happy with the situation, but everything is being done to ensure proper refuse disposal. We will no longer allow political contractors without capacity to handle such an important service,” Wike stated. This move reflects the administration’s commitment to ensuring that essential services are handled by qualified professionals, thereby improving the cleanliness and aesthetic appeal of the FCT.
Residents of satellite towns, particularly those in Federal Housing Estates, have also voiced concerns about dilapidated road networks in their communities. In response, Wike reiterated his administration’s commitment to infrastructure renewal across all six area councils of the FCT—Abaji, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, Kwali, and the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC). He emphasized that the ongoing road projects are part of a broader strategy to ensure balanced development, ensuring that both urban and rural areas benefit from improved infrastructure and services. The minister’s focus on equitable development aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda’s goal of creating inclusive growth and opportunities for all residents of the FCT.
The Wuye to Ring Road II Road project, another key initiative inspected by Wike, is also progressing steadily. This road is expected to alleviate traffic congestion in the Wuye area and improve connectivity to other parts of the city, further enhancing the FCT’s road network. The minister’s hands-on approach to monitoring these projects demonstrates his administration’s dedication to delivering on its promises. By personally inspecting construction sites, Wike ensures that contractors adhere to timelines and maintain high standards of quality, fostering accountability and transparency in the execution of public projects.
The FCT Administration’s efforts extend beyond infrastructure to encompass urban services that directly impact residents’ quality of life. The focus on waste management, for instance, is a critical step toward creating a cleaner and healthier environment in Abuja. The minister’s commitment to awarding contracts to capable firms signals a shift away from politically motivated appointments, which have often hindered service delivery in the past. By prioritizing competence and capacity, Wike aims to establish a sustainable framework for waste management that will benefit both residents and visitors to the capital city.
Moreover, the “Light Up Abuja” initiative represents a multifaceted approach to urban development. By improving street lighting, the project not only enhances security but also contributes to the city’s aesthetic appeal, making it more attractive to investors and tourists. The initiative aligns with global best practices in urban planning, where well-lit cities are known to experience lower crime rates and increased economic activity. Wike’s emphasis on security as a priority reflects an understanding of its importance to the overall development of the FCT, as a safe city is more likely to attract investment and foster economic growth.
The minister’s assurances come at a time when residents of the FCT are increasingly vocal about the need for improved infrastructure and services. The rapid population growth in Abuja and its satellite towns has put pressure on existing facilities, necessitating urgent action to address these challenges. Wike’s proactive approach, coupled with his commitment to engaging competent contractors and prioritizing quality, has instilled hope among residents that the FCT is on the path to becoming a model capital city.
In conclusion, Minister Nyesom Wike’s inspection of ongoing road projects and his assurances regarding security and waste management reflect a comprehensive vision for the development of the Federal Capital Territory. The timely completion of the Airport–Kuje dual carriageway and the Wuye to Ring Road II Road, alongside initiatives like “Light Up Abuja” and improved waste management, are poised to transform the FCT into a more connected, secure, and livable city. By addressing the concerns of residents in satellite towns and ensuring balanced development across all area councils, the FCT Administration is laying the foundation for sustainable growth. As the third anniversary of President Tinubu’s administration approaches, the completion of these projects will serve as a testament to the Renewed Hope Agenda’s commitment to delivering tangible results for the people of the FCT.