In a significant move to enhance infrastructure and connectivity in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), President Bola Tinubu has commissioned the dualised and upgraded Ushafa to War College Army checkpoint roads and other ancillary roads in the Bwari area council.
The project, executed by an indigenous contractor, underscores the administration’s commitment to local capacity development and inclusive growth.
In his keynote address during Wednesday’s commissioning, President Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, hailed the project as a transformative milestone for residents of Bwari and neighbouring communities.
“Today, we mark not just the commissioning of a road but the fulfilment of a promise. The journey between Ushafa and the War College Army checkpoint has been a test of endurance for too long. Every commuter, trader, student, and health worker who has travelled this road has borne the burden of delay and difficulties. That story changes today,” he said.
The President emphasised that the road would stimulate economic activities, improve access to education and healthcare, and enhance the overall quality of life.
“Beyond the concrete and asphalt, this project is a tangible expression of our administration’s commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development,” he stated.
A highlight of the event was the revelation that a Nigerian contractor, Abdul Val, executed the project, a decision Tinubu described as deliberate.
“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.
“This project is a clear declaration that the Nigerian spirit is alive, capable, and ready to deliver excellence,” he said.
President Tinubu stressed the need for equitable development across all parts of the FCT: “No part of the FCT will be relegated. Development must be all-encompassing.”
Earlier, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, thanked the President for his unprecedented focus on satellite towns.
“For the first time in FCT history, no President, Vice President, Senate President, or Minister has visited Area Councils to commission projects. This shows your love for satellite town residents,” he said.
Wike recounted his initial scepticism about the STD coordinator’s ability to deliver but praised the eventual outcome after rigorous supervision.
“I gave this coordinator sleepless nights. I visited this site over 15 times, even on Sundays and Saturdays. I apologise to her if he has a husband; I made her husband’s life difficult. Today, we celebrate success.
“Those who don’t want to see progress may never see again. God gave you eyes to see, yet you refuse. I hereby declare: may you not see,” he said.
The minister later humorously acknowledged the Vice President’s request for him to dance,
eliciting cheers from the crowd. “The Vice President likes me to dance. If I am not careful, I will dance today!”
