FCT satellite communities now benefiting from devt as Kuje-Gwagwalada road opens – Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has said his administration is extending infrastructure and development projects beyond Abuja’s city centre, stressing that residents of satellite communities are now enjoying the benefits of the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The President made the remarks on Wednesday during the inauguration of the newly completed 7-kilometre dual carriageway linking Kuje and Gwagwalada in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu described the road project as a major milestone in efforts to improve living conditions, security and economic activities in rural communities across the FCT.

According to him, the corridor, which is equipped with solar-powered streetlights, pedestrian walkways and drainage facilities, has replaced a route that for many years posed serious challenges to commuters, farmers, traders and students.

“For many years, residents endured poor road conditions, insecurity and long travel times along this route. Today, that reality has changed. This project represents improved safety, easier movement of goods and people, and greater economic opportunities for surrounding communities,” the President said.

He noted that the road serves as an important connection between Abuja and several area councils while also providing access to parts of southern Nigeria. Tinubu added that the project would stimulate agricultural activities, support residential expansion and improve mobility within the territory.

The President commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for pursuing infrastructure projects across both urban and rural communities, saying development under his administration would not be concentrated in a few affluent districts.

Tinubu assured residents that more investments in roads, schools, healthcare facilities and water projects would be delivered across the six area councils, emphasizing that no community would be excluded from government programmes.

He also called on residents to protect public infrastructure, warning against acts capable of damaging the newly completed road and its facilities, particularly the solar-powered streetlights.

The President further acknowledged the sacrifices Nigerians have made amid ongoing economic reforms, stating that the measures were necessary to secure long-term national growth and prosperity.

Speaking at the ceremony, Wike explained that the road project emerged from consultations conducted shortly after he assumed office as FCT Minister. He said he visited all six area councils to engage stakeholders and identify pressing developmental needs.

According to the minister, traditional leaders in Kuje highlighted the poor state of roads as a major factor contributing to insecurity in the area, making it difficult for security agencies to effectively respond to criminal activities.

Wike said the FCT Administration subsequently prioritized road infrastructure in the area, completing key connecting roads before seeking and obtaining Federal Executive Council approval for the Kuje-Gwagwalada project.

He disclosed that the contract was awarded to Gilmor Engineering Nigeria Limited following President Tinubu’s approval and expressed satisfaction that the project was completed within schedule and to the required standard.

The minister also announced that work on the second phase of the road corridor is progressing and is expected to be completed by December 2026, providing a continuous route between Kuje and Gwagwalada without reliance on the federal highway.

In her remarks, Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, said the project reflects the administration’s commitment to infrastructure development and improved living standards for residents.

She stated that the road would strengthen economic activities, enhance connectivity and create new opportunities for communities within Kuje, Gwagwalada and other parts of the territory.

Providing details of the project, the Coordinator of the Satellite Towns Development Agency, Abdulkadir Zulkiflu, said the commissioned section covers a 7-kilometre stretch between Chibiri and Kiyi, while the remaining 12-kilometre segment from Kiyi to Gwagwalada is scheduled for completion by December 2026.

He explained that the project involved extensive earthworks, drainage construction, bridge development, asphalt surfacing, kerb installation and the deployment of solar-powered street lighting.

Zulkiflu expressed confidence that the new road would improve transportation for farmers and traders, create employment opportunities and provide alternative routes connecting Kuje with other parts of the FCT.

Also speaking, Managing Director of Gilmor Engineering Nigeria Limited, Eli Goldhar, said the project would enhance connectivity, support local commerce and strengthen security in communities along the corridor.

He noted that improved road infrastructure remains a critical driver of economic growth and social development.