President Tinubu Flags Off Two Major Road Projects in Abuja

By Aviashima Toom, Abuja

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration's commitment to infrastructure development as a key driver of economic growth and improved living standards, following the flag-off of two major road projects in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The President, represented by the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, performed the groundbreaking ceremonies for the construction of two service carriageways of the Southern Parkway in Gaduwa District and the Collector Road CO1 in the Institution and Research District of Abuja.

Speaking at the Southern Parkway flag-off, Professor Yilwatda conveyed President Tinubu's message, describing the project as a critical component of the administration's Renewed Hope Agenda and ongoing infrastructure renewal programme.

According to the President, the Southern Parkway is one of the most important transportation corridors within Abuja's southern development axis, linking several districts across Phases I to IV of the Federal Capital City.

He noted that while the main carriageway, now known as Bola Ahmed Tinubu Way, has already been completed and commissioned, the construction of the service carriageways will complete the original road design and significantly ease traffic congestion in Durumi, Gudu, Gaduwa, Duboyi and surrounding communities.

President Tinubu said the project would improve traffic flow, reduce travel time, lower transportation costs, and enhance the quality of life for residents and businesses in the area.

The President also highlighted other infrastructure projects delivered by the administration across the FCT, including the N20 Corridor, the N16 Interchange linking Jahi and Gwarimpa, as well as road networks in Kuje, Gwagwalada and Mabushi.

At a separate ceremony in the Institution and Research District near Nile University, President Tinubu described the construction of Collector Road CO1 as a strategic investment in education, innovation and economic development.

He said the road would provide critical access to universities, research centres, legal institutions and innovation hubs, while strengthening connectivity within the nation's capital.

The President noted that the Institution and Research District was conceived as Abuja's intellectual hub and stressed the importance of quality infrastructure in supporting knowledge-based development.

He added that the project complements the already completed corridor linking the Body of Benchers, Nile University and Baze University, which is expected to be commissioned as part of activities marking the third anniversary of the administration.

President Tinubu reiterated his administration's commitment to completing inherited projects while initiating new developments capable of delivering long-term economic and social benefits.

He commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for what he described as outstanding leadership and effective project delivery, noting that the minister's efforts have transformed Abuja into a major construction hub.

The President also praised the Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, and officials of the Federal Capital Territory Administration and the Federal Capital Development Authority for ensuring proper supervision and adherence to project standards.

He urged residents to cooperate with contractors and traffic management officials during the construction period and charged contractors to deliver quality work within schedule while creating employment opportunities for Nigerian youths.

President Tinubu expressed confidence that ongoing reforms and infrastructure investments would continue to strengthen the nation's economy and improve the lives of citizens.

The two road projects are expected to improve mobility, boost economic activities, enhance urban connectivity and support the long-term development goals of the Federal Capital Territory.