The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Wednesday directed contractors handling major infrastructure projects across Abuja to adhere strictly to agreed timelines, ahead of planned commissioning activities to mark the third anniversary of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
Wike gave the directive during an inspection tour of ongoing projects, including the Jahi–Gwarimpa Interchange, Airport Road to Kuje corridor, Kuje to Gwagwalada road, the City Gate project, and the Wuse/Central Area link roads.
At the Jahi Interchange being handled by CBC Global, the minister expressed satisfaction with the quality of work, projecting that the project would near completion within weeks.
He said: “We are very hopeful that in the next two weeks we will reach over 95 per cent. The quality of the job is very good, and I believe we are going to meet up with the timing.”
However, Wike raised concerns about the pace of work on some components, particularly the bridge section, warning that timelines must not be compromised.
“No doubt about the quality of job, but I’m still doubtful about completion on time. They have given us their promise. I hope they will keep it,” he added.
On the Airport Road to Kuje Junction project being executed by Arab Contractors, the minister expressed optimism that the project would be completed before the end of the month.
“Very good quality job… we are hopeful that by the end of this month, we may be wrapping up with that job,” he said.
He also commended progress on the Kuje to Gwagwalada road, noting that the project was advancing steadily and within expected timelines.
“The work is going quite well. We also believe they will be on time,” Wike stated.
Speaking on the City Gate project being handled by Julius Berger, the minister described it as a landmark development capable of redefining Abuja’s entrance.
“Very good, beautiful work. In the next one month, anyone coming to Abuja will see a different landscape,” he said, assuring residents of improved infrastructure delivery.
“If Abuja residents require the best, then we are going to provide the best,” he added.
Wike, however, stressed that all contractors must align with government schedules for the planned inauguration of projects tied to the administration’s anniversary.
“These are projects scheduled to be inaugurated in the third anniversary of this administration. I’m pleading with the company to keep to timing,” he said.
At the Wuse/Central Area link roads, the minister again acknowledged the quality of work but expressed reservations about the speed of delivery.
“I’ve seen the work going on. Quality is not in doubt, but I’m still doubtful about completion on time,” he said.
He disclosed that several projects would be ready for commissioning during the anniversary period, including water treatment plants in Bwari and Ushafa, roads in Katampe, Gishiri and Gaduwa, sections of the Kuje–Gwagwalada corridor, Bazango and Kaura roads, as well as the relocation and development of the Apo mechanics site.
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The minister further revealed that the City Gate project would feature permanent security installations, including 24-hour surveillance and artificial intelligence-powered monitoring systems.
“We are going to provide security in that place… security cameras, AI, everything will be there,” he said.
Wike assured that the FCT Administration would continue to collaborate with contractors to ensure timely delivery, emphasising that Abuja’s ongoing transformation must be driven by strict adherence to project timelines.
“So by and large, we are very happy with the level of commitment by various companies. We will also do our part to fulfil our obligation,” he said.
