The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has commissioned the Haharati River Ukya access road in Abaji Area Council, fulfilling a critical infrastructure promise made during a stakeholders’ meeting in January 2024. This 5-kilometer road project, now linking the settlement of Haharati to Abaji Lokoja Road, marks a significant milestone in the FCT’s efforts to improve connectivity and foster development in satellite towns.
Speaking at the commissioning event, Wike emphasized the importance of keeping promises and delivering impactful projects that enhance the lives of residents. “When we held the stakeholders’ meeting last year, I assured you that this project would be ready for commissioning by December. Today, we are here in January 2025, celebrating its completion. This is a testament to our commitment to delivering on our promises,” he stated.
The Minister commended the community and the contractors for their collaboration, which ensured the timely completion of the project. He reiterated the administration’s commitment to addressing security challenges in the region by promising two new police divisions in the area which are already under construction.
Wike also highlighted the government’s broader strategy of balancing development between the FCT city center and satellite towns. “While we are focused on developing the city, we are equally committed to uplifting the satellite towns. This project is a perfect example of that commitment,” he said. He further pledged to include additional road projects for the Abaji community in the 2025 budget.
The Executive Chairman of Abaji Area Council, Honorable Abubakar Umar Abdullahi, lauded the project as a transformative initiative that addresses both social and economic challenges in the region. “The completion of this road is highly significant as it provides a vital link to Abaji Lokoja Expressway and serves as a diversion in case of emergencies on the federal highway. It is a project that underscores the strategic vision of His Excellency,” Abdullahi noted.
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Abdullahi also praised the administration for its unwavering support in implementing life-changing projects within the council. He mentioned ongoing initiatives such as the establishment of two police divisions, the construction of an 80-bed hospital nearing completion, and the development of a 750-capacity modern ICT center in Abaji. Additionally, vocational and agricultural empowerment programs are actively training hundreds of residents to boost human capital development and food security in the area.
In his remarks, Wike expressed gratitude to the people of Abaji for their cooperation during the project and urged them to continue supporting the administration. “We are here to serve and contribute to the development of the FCT. Every promise we make is a promise we will fulfill,” he assured.
The Haharati River Ukya access road is expected to enhance mobility, improve economic activities, and provide a strategic alternative route for residents and travelers in the region. As Wike continues to prioritize infrastructure development, this project serves as a reminder of the administration’s dedication to improving lives across all parts of the FCT.
