By Sofiat Adenekan-Abdul
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has expressed strong confidence in the pace of ongoing infrastructure projects across Abuja, projecting that several will reach at least 95 per cent completion ahead of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s third anniversary in office.
Speaking on Wednesday during an extensive inspection tour, Wike assessed progress at key sites including the Jahi Interchange, Airport Road–Kuje corridor, Gwagwalada axis, and the Abuja City Gate, describing the overall quality of work as impressive and largely on schedule.
At the Jahi Interchange project, handled by CBC Global, the minister said construction had reached an advanced stage and could surpass 95 per cent completion within two weeks. He commended the contractor for maintaining high standards and sticking to timelines.
“We are very hopeful. From what we have seen and from the assurances given, we believe they will meet up with the timeline. The quality of work is very good,” Wike stated.
The minister also inspected the Airport Road to Kuje Junction project, executed by Arab Contractors, noting that it is nearing completion and could be delivered before the end of the month. He described the project as a critical infrastructure upgrade that will ease mobility and improve connectivity within the FCT.
On the Kuje–Gwagwalada road corridor, Wike said progress remains steady and aligned with expectations, expressing optimism that contractors will deliver within the agreed timeframe.
At the Abuja City Gate, being handled by Julius Berger, the minister highlighted the transformative impact of the project, saying it will significantly enhance the capital’s visual appeal.
“In the next one month, anyone coming into Abuja will see a different landscape. That is what a capital city should look like,” he said.
However, Wike raised concerns over the pace of work on one of the bridge projects, warning that while the quality meets expectations, timely delivery remains uncertain. He urged contractors to honour their commitments and accelerate work to meet deadlines.
The minister revealed that many of the ongoing projects are scheduled for commissioning as part of activities marking the President’s third anniversary, describing the timeline as ambitious but achievable.
Projects lined up for inauguration include the Bwari and Ushafa water schemes, road networks in Katampe and Gishiri, Gaduwa road, sections of the Kuje–Gwagwalada corridor, and developments in Apo, including a new site for relocated mechanics. Additional projects in satellite towns such as Gwagwalada, Kwali, and Bwari area councils are also nearing completion.
Wike further assured residents of enhanced security measures at strategic locations, particularly the City Gate, which is expected to evolve into a 24-hour activity hub. He noted that surveillance systems and a permanent security presence will be deployed to safeguard the area.
Reaffirming the commitment of the FCT Administration, the minister said the government will continue to meet its obligations to contractors to ensure timely execution and delivery of world-class infrastructure.
The inspection tour underscores the administration’s renewed push to fast-track infrastructure development and reshape Abuja’s urban landscape in line with its broader development agenda.
