Abuja: President Bola Tinubu has lauded the Nyesom Wike-led Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) for its efforts in transforming Abuja into a hub for business, housing, and investment. Tinubu made these remarks during the inauguration of the right-hand service carriageway of the Inter Northern Expressway (INEX), which stretches from Ring Road III to the Outer Northern Expressway, also known as the Murtala Mohammed Expressway.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Tinubu, represented by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, emphasized the significance of the newly constructed INEX as a vital component of the Federal Territory Master Plan. The project aims to ease traffic, improve connectivity, and enhance urban mobility for the city’s residents and businesses. Tinubu praised the FCT Administration for its dedication to quality and timely project execution, noting that this roadway symbolizes progress and aligns with his Renewed Hope Agenda.
Tinubu highlighted the necessity of expanding and maintaining critical routes in response to increasing traffic volumes in the FCT and surrounding areas. The road’s development is expected to not only connect key junctions but also promote safer and more efficient travel within Abuja. He expressed optimism that the project would unlock opportunities for businesses, housing, and investment in the adjacent districts. The president also reiterated his administration’s commitment to replicating similar infrastructure projects across the country.
Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike explained that the 16-kilometre road project, originally awarded in 2014 at a cost of N7 billion, was completed by the current administration at N31 billion due to inflation and other factors. Wike commended Tinubu for ensuring the project’s completion, which aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at finishing ongoing projects that benefit the populace and economy.
Wike further mentioned the potential of the nearby Industrial Park, which, once completed, is expected to create 40,000 direct jobs. He stressed the importance of road infrastructure in driving economic growth and attracting investors, and he acknowledged Tinubu’s contributions to the development of Abuja.
Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, the FCT Minister of State, remarked that the project exemplifies the Tinubu administration’s commitment to delivering impactful governance. Mr. Richard Dauda, acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory Development Authority, provided additional details about the road’s design, which is part of a larger 32.5-kilometre, 10-lane expressway outlined in the Abuja Master Plan.
Dauda explained that the expressway is designed with two main carriageways and two service carriageways, and it connects various key areas from Maitama to the ONEX. The ongoing development of the road is being executed in phases, with the recently inaugurated section marking an essential milestone.
