By Sofiat Adenekan-Abdul
President Bola Tinubu says the newly developed Wasa Informal Sector Layout in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) will stimulate economic growth, increase internally generated revenue and reduce the cost of doing business by providing a permanent and modern business environment for artisans and traders.
The President made the declaration while commissioning the access roads and supporting infrastructure to the Wasa Informal Sector Layout in Abuja, describing the project as a major step towards empowering thousands of mechanics, traders and other informal sector operators relocating from the congested Apo Mechanic Village.
Represented by Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, Tinubu said the project fulfils a long-standing promise to relocate informal businesses into a better organised commercial environment where they can operate efficiently and contribute more meaningfully to the economy.
He noted that the development aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to ensure that infrastructure development benefits ordinary Nigerians and not just residents of highbrow areas. The President added that beyond improving business operations, the project is expected to expand Abuja’s revenue base and create new economic opportunities.
Tinubu commended FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and Minister of State Mariya Mahmoud for accelerating infrastructure delivery across the territory, saying their leadership has ended the era of abandoned public projects in the FCT.
Addressing concerns over the country’s economic reforms, the President acknowledged the hardship faced by Nigerians but assured citizens that the administration remains committed to easing the burden through targeted interventions, food security programmes and continued investment in infrastructure.
Speaking at the event, Wike said previous administrations had repeatedly promised to relocate traders and mechanics from Apo without success, but the Tinubu administration fulfilled the commitment within months after awarding the contract in November 2025.
The minister urged beneficiaries to relocate to the new site as agreed, describing the facility as a modern commercial hub designed to improve business operations and eliminate congestion within the city.
Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the project as another milestone in the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda, saying it demonstrates the administration’s determination to take development beyond the city centre.
Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engr. Richard Dauda, explained that the Wasa Informal Sector Layout was specifically designed to accommodate mechanics, spare parts dealers, vehicle marketers, artisans and other informal businesses that were not originally provided for in Abuja’s master plan.
He added that the project includes access roads, water supply and electricity, creating a structured commercial environment that will support business growth while decongesting the existing Apo Mechanic Village.
