Nigeria’s bid to host the upcoming Commonwealth Games received a significant boost on Tuesday as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, inaugurated the construction of Arterial Road S1, which connects Ring Road II to the FCT Fire Service Station in Kaura District.
Wike emphasized that this project aims not only to improve transportation within the city but also to highlight Abuja as a modern, world-class city capable of hosting international sporting events.
He pointed out that having quality infrastructure is essential for Nigeria’s bid to secure the rights to host the Commonwealth Games, asserting that well-developed road networks would instill confidence in the assessment committee regarding the FCT’s readiness.
“Nigeria is vying to host the next Commonwealth Games, and achieving this will be challenging without a robust road network.
“When the committee visits and sees that essential infrastructure is being developed, it gives us an advantage in winning the hosting rights,” Wike stated.
Read Also:
- Abuja will compete with major world cities before Tinubu’s tenure ends – Wike
- Residents of Abuja’s Lokogoma Area Call on Wike, Egbetokun to halt forced eviction of their homes
- Wike’s son Jordan called to bar
The minister detailed that the new road, which is just over two kilometers long and includes a three-span bridge, will also enhance emergency response capabilities for the fire service, improve safety, and stimulate economic activities in the Kaura District.
He urged the construction company involved to hire local youth, thereby creating job opportunities while delivering a facility that benefits both residents and Nigeria’s international aspirations.
Wike further connected the project to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that the ongoing road expansions and dualizations throughout the FCT, such as the Airport-Kuje Expressway and Kuje-Gwagwalada Road, are part of the efforts to transform Abuja into a city that can compete with global capitals.
He assured that by the end of the president’s first term, the nation’s capital would possess the infrastructure necessary to host international events and meet global standards.