President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to infrastructure-led development with the flag-off of two major road projects in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), described them as key components of the Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at improving mobility, boosting economic growth, and enhancing the quality of life of residents.
The President, represented by the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nentawe Yilwatda, performed the groundbreaking ceremonies on Tuesday for the construction of two Service Carriageways of the Southern Parkway from Arterial Road S20 to Ring Road II in Gaduwa District, and the Collector Road CO1 in the Institution and Research District from the Nile University axis to Ring Road III.
Speaking at the Southern Parkway ceremony, Prof. Yilwatda, on behalf of the President, described the project as a vital part of the administration’s ongoing infrastructure revolution.
He noted that the Southern Parkway, one of Abuja’s major transportation corridors, links several districts across Phases I to IV of the Federal Capital City, adding that while the main carriageway, now known as Bola Ahmed Tinubu Way, had already been completed and commissioned, the new service carriageways would complete the original road design.
According to the President, the project will significantly reduce traffic congestion in Durumi, Gudu, Gaduwa, Duboyi and surrounding communities, while improving traffic flow, shortening travel time, lowering transportation costs, and enhancing residents’ quality of life.
“This is the dividend of democracy. This is Renewed Hope in action,” the President stated.
Tinubu said the project complements other major transportation infrastructure already delivered in the FCT, including the N20 Corridor, the N16 Interchange linking Jahi and Gwarimpa, as well as road projects in Kuje, Gwagwalada and Mabushi.
At the second ceremony in the Institution and Research District, the President described the construction of Collector Road CO1 as a strategic investment designed to strengthen education, research, innovation, legal practice and economic development.
He explained that the road would connect universities, research institutions, legal establishments and innovation centres to Abuja’s broader road network, thereby supporting the growth of a knowledge-driven economy.
“The Institution and Research District was conceived as the intellectual heart of Abuja. However, ideas cannot move if roads do not move. This project will provide critical access, reduce travel time, improve connectivity and support the growth of a knowledge-driven economy,” he said.
The President added that the project builds on the already completed road corridor linking the Body of Benchers, Nile University and Baze University, which is scheduled for commissioning as part of activities marking the third anniversary of the Renewed Hope Administration.
Tinubu reiterated that his administration remains committed to completing inherited projects while initiating new strategic developments capable of delivering lasting economic and social benefits.
He commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for what he described as exceptional leadership and project delivery, saying his efforts had transformed Abuja into a major construction hub.
The President also praised the Minister of State for the FCT, Mariya Mahmoud, alongside officials of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), for ensuring quality supervision of ongoing projects.
He urged residents to cooperate with contractors and traffic management officials throughout the construction period, assuring them that temporary inconveniences would ultimately yield long-term benefits.
Tinubu also charged contractors handling the projects to maintain quality standards, adhere strictly to project timelines, create employment opportunities for Nigerian youths and artisans, and promote skills transfer.
Expressing confidence in Nigeria’s future, the President said the administration’s reforms were already yielding visible results across critical sectors.
“Three years into this administration, the results are becoming increasingly visible. From transportation infrastructure to housing, education and economic reforms, we are building the foundations of a nation that works for all Nigerians. The best days of Abuja and indeed Nigeria remain ahead,” he declared.
The two road projects are expected to improve mobility, enhance urban connectivity, stimulate economic activities and support the long-term development objectives of the Federal Capital Territory.
