By Sofiat Adenekan-Abdul
President Bola Tinubu has commissioned the first phase of the Kuje-Gwagwalada dual carriageway in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), describing the project as a major intervention that will boost security, improve transportation and unlock economic opportunities for residents of satellite communities.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the inauguration ceremony on Wednesday, the President said the road marks a turning point for communities that had endured years of poor infrastructure and difficult commuting conditions.
Tinubu noted that the seven-kilometre road, fitted with solar-powered streetlights, drainage facilities and pedestrian walkways, would strengthen connectivity between Kuje, Gwagwalada, Kwali and surrounding communities while enhancing the movement of people and goods.
He said the project aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda and reflects the administration’s determination to extend development beyond Abuja city centre to underserved areas.
According to him, the Federal Government remains committed to providing roads, schools, healthcare facilities and other essential infrastructure across the six area councils and satellite towns of the FCT.
The President also urged residents to protect public infrastructure and support government efforts through responsible civic conduct.
Commending the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, Tinubu said the ongoing transformation of satellite communities demonstrates inclusive governance and a commitment to balanced development.
Earlier, Wike said the project was initiated after extensive consultations with residents and traditional rulers, who identified poor road infrastructure and insecurity as major challenges facing the area.
He recalled that a personal inspection of the route revealed the urgent need for intervention, prompting the administration to secure approval for the project.
The minister expressed satisfaction with the completion of the first phase and disclosed that the contractor, Gilmor Engineering Nigeria Limited, had assured the FCT Administration that the second phase would be completed by December 2026.
He said the project would enhance economic activities, ease the transportation of agricultural produce and strengthen interactions between residents of Kuje and Gwagwalada.
Minister of State for the FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, described the project as a reflection of the administration’s commitment to improving living conditions through strategic infrastructure investments.
Also speaking, Coordinator of the Satellite Towns Development Department, Abdulkadir Zulkiflu, said the project comprises a seven-kilometre dual carriageway with two lanes on each side, a three-span bridge, drainage systems and solar-powered streetlights.
He added that the remaining six kilometres under the second phase are expected to be completed before the end of next year, completing the full upgrade of the Kuje-Gwagwalada corridor.
