By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu extolled the FCT Minister Barr Nyesom Wike for his exemplary visionary feats in transforming the Capital Territory.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu stated this on Monday at the commissioning of the Southern Parkway project in Abuja as part of activities to celebrate his one year in office.
President Tinubu said, ” Barr. Nyesom Wike, Mr. Project, thank you for giving us this home and for your sincere commitment to shared values. Your revolutionary vision is inspiring many and yielding remarkable results in the FCT.”
The president hailed the FCT Minister’s dedication and leadership, emphasizing the project’s role in driving Nigeria towards inclusive and sustainable development.
“Infrastructure is an enabler of jobs, economic growth, and prosperity,” he said. “We are committed to building a world-class capital city, and the completion of this road is a testament to that commitment.”
“The Southern Parkway connects vital areas within the FCT and symbolizes our collective aspirations for connectivity, ease of livelihood, and progress,” President Tinubu remarked.”
“This road will enhance mobility, ease traffic congestion, and spur economic development for residents and visitors alike.”
As the president was about to cut the ribbon, President Tinubu acknowledged the hard work of Wike and his team.
He stressed, “The success of this project means more jobs and more hard work ahead,” he concluded.”I am honored to inaugurate this road today.”
President Tinubu highlighted the significance of the project, which had been dormant for 13 years before Wike’s intervention.
Earlier, Wike said, “This landmark project is the first among nine visionary projects scheduled for commissioning by Mr. President in the coming days.”
“It represents a significant milestone in our collective efforts to enhance the infrastructure and livability of our great capital and her inhabitants.”
“As we mark the first year of your transformative leadership, Mr. President, this event underscores our shared commitment to progress, innovation, and the enduring prosperity of Nigeria.”
The ceremony underscored the administration’s focus on prioritizing the needs of Nigerian citizens. “Making our citizens the central focus of our development is crucial for Nigeria’s success,” President Tinubu stated.
“We collectively will not let you down, Barrister Wike.” As he prepared to cut the ribbon, President Tinubu acknowledged the hard work of Wike and his team. “The success of this project means more jobs and more hard work ahead,” he concluded. “I am honored to inaugurate this road today.”
The ceremony underscored the administration’s focus on prioritizing the needs of Nigerian citizens. “Making our citizens the central focus of our development is crucial for Nigeria’s success,” President Tinubu stated. “We collectively will not let you down, Barr Wike.”
On her part, the FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud thanked President Tinubu for commissioning the Abuja project.
Mahmoud said, “On behalf of the Federal Capital Territory Administration and its residents, I extend our heartfelt gratitude to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for gracing this auspicious occasion with his presence.”
“Your dedication and hard work have transformed our city’s landscape, enhancing connectivity and mobility for all.”
“I also express our sincere appreciation to Mr. Project, the Honorable Minister of FCT, Barrister Nyesom Wike, and other cabinet ministers, who stood by us to succeed in this audacious journey.”
“As we inaugurate this Southern Parkway, let us celebrate not only its physical completion but also the opportunities it brings for economic growth, social cohesion, and improved quality of life for our citizens.”
Speaking on the overview of the project , Engr. Shehu Hadi, the Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) explained,”The Southern Parkway project covers a total distance of about 5.4 kilometers, spanning from the National Christian Centre and CBN junction with Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, up to Ring Road One, the Nnamdi Azikiwe Expressway.”
“The scope includes the development of two main carriageways of four lanes each and two service carriageways of two lanes each, making a total of 12 lanes, as well as the construction of four interchanges with eight bridge crossings.”
“This parkway aims to rapidly evacuate traffic from the city center, thereby reducing delays and increasing useful man-hours,” Engr. Hadi explained. “It complements the Northern Parkway and eases heavy traffic in the southern districts of Garki, Gudu, and beyond, while also accelerating development in the southern axis of the city.”
“The project was awarded to Setraco Nigeria Limited in two phases but faced funding challenges,” Engr. Hadi noted. “Thanks to the determination of Mr. Project, the Honorable Minister of FCT, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, we have successfully completed this segment. Every aspect of the work has been accomplished and delivered.”
Daybreak reports that the inauguration of the South Parkway project was attended by key political figures, industry leaders, royal fathers, and religious leaders.
