Tinubu commissions Wasa informal sector access roads, says project will drive Abuja’s IGR, ease business costs

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has inaugurated the access roads to the Informal Sector Layout in Wasa District, Abuja, describing the project as a strategic intervention that will reposition the area into a structured commercial hub and strengthen the FCT’s revenue base.

The President, who was represented by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, said the infrastructure was designed to provide a permanent and modern workspace for thousands of artisans and mechanics currently operating across the Federal Capital Territory.

Speaking at the ceremony on Friday, President Tinubu said the development fulfilled a long-standing commitment to relocate traders and technicians from the congested Apo Mechanic Village.

“When we unveiled the Renewed Hope Agenda, we made a firm commitment that development would not be limited to the elite,” the President stated.

“Infrastructure must also serve as a platform for the economic advancement of ordinary Nigerians.

“This investment in Wasa is about dignity and opportunity. With quality roads, power and water in place, we are laying the foundation for a vibrant commercial district that will expand Abuja’s Internally Generated Revenue and reduce the cost of doing business for small operators.”

He commended the FCT Administration for what he called decisive delivery, and specifically applauded FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, for his “determination and results-driven leadership,” and the Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, for her consistent support.

“The days of abandoned projects in the FCT are behind us,” he added.

On the economy, the President acknowledged the difficulties linked to ongoing reforms, but assured citizens that government was rolling out targeted interventions in social welfare, food security and structural development to cushion the impact.

In his remarks, Barr. Wike said previous governments had made repeated promises to move Apo mechanics to a better location without action.

“Last November, this contract was awarded to provide the needed infrastructure for relocation. Today, that promise has been kept,” the Minister stated.

He urged the beneficiaries to relocate promptly and in an orderly manner, and thanked CGC Nigeria Limited and the Area Council Chairmen for ensuring timely completion.

The Minister of State, FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the commissioning as evidence that the Renewed Hope Agenda is extending development beyond the city centre.

“This project unlocks investment and prosperity for Wasa residents,” she said. “While government builds these assets, it is our collective duty as citizens to protect and maintain them for future generations.”

Presenting an overview, the Acting Executive Secretary of the FCDA, Engr. Richard Yunana Dauda, said the contract for access roads, power and water supply to the Wasa Informal Sector was awarded to CGC Nigeria Ltd. in November 2025.

He explained that the layout was conceived for categories of workers not accommodated in the original city master plan, including motor mechanics, spare parts dealers, car marts, informal markets and other artisans.

According to him, siting the cluster on the city fringe will allow such operations to thrive without creating congestion in the central business district. The new site is expected to absorb traders and mechanics currently operating in an unplanned and overstretched location along the Outer Southern Expressway.

The commissioning was witnessed by members of the National Assembly, FCT officials, traditional rulers and representatives of artisan groups.