By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
The FCT Minister, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has flagged off to kick start the resurfacing and rehabilitation of existing roads in the Asokoro District of the FCT.
During the flag-off exercise at the AYA round-about in Abuja on Thursday, Wike said that the rehabilitation project was part President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The minister disclosed that the President has given a marching order to the FCT Administration to do everything humanly possible to ensure that the city of Abuja becomes what it should, as that the President is committed to the welfare and upliftment of the lives of residents of the FCT.
He also disclosed that the FCT Administration will soon carry out the resurfacing of roads in Maitama and Wuse Districts of the FCT and assured that the projects would be completed before May 29, 2024 during the first year anniversary of Mr President in office.
The FCT Minister pledged his commitment to deliver the mandate of Mr. President in the FCT, noted that the FCTA has available funds from revenue generated internally and the federal allocation, to carry out the road rehabilitation exercise.
He stressed that the FCT Administration will not be distracted by critics of government policies, as the FCT Administration would do what is best for the generality of people as mandated by the President.
Wike said the administration will remain focused and courageous in taking decisions favourable to residents of the FCT, despite the recent demonstrations against some of the policies of the FCT Administration.
He said, “The policies you make, it may not favour some people, but what is important is the generality of the people, not few people who benefit at the detriment of others.”
The Minister of State, FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud in agreement, said that FCT roads over the years have suffered the effect of time and usage, leading to portholes, uneven surfaces and general deterioration.
Mahmoud said that the rehabilitation of the roads mark a significant step towards revitalization of infrastructure and enhancing the overall quality of life of FCT residents; that it reflects the commitment of the FCT to safety and economic prosperity.
She added that improved road surfaces mean safer journeys for commuters in the FCT, reduction of accidents, vehicular damages, and beauty of the communities in the FCT.
She commended the FCT minister for the bold steps taken to carry out the rehabilitation works and called for the understanding of road users during the period of the exercise.
In their separate remarks, the Chairmen, Senate and House of Representatives Committees on FCT, Senator Ibrahim Bomai and Hon. Aliyu Mukhtar Betara, respectively promised to cooperate with the FCT Administration to ensure the success of all projects in the FCT.
The MD Arab Contractor – the construction company in charge of the project, Engr. Mohammed El-Edaros thanked the FCT Minister for his support and also assured that the project would be completed within schedule.
