The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, on Wednesday urged contractors handling key infrastructure projects across Abuja to meet agreed deadlines, as the administration prepares for a major commissioning programme marking President Bola Tinubu’s third anniversary in office.
Wike spoke during an inspection tour of ongoing projects, including the Jahi–Gwarimpa Interchange, the Airport Road–Kuje corridor, the Kuje–Gwagwalada road, the City Gate project, and the Wuse/Central Area link roads.
At the Jahi Interchange, being handled by CBC Global, the minister expressed satisfaction with the quality of work and optimism about its near completion.
“We are very hopeful… in the next two weeks, we are sure that we will reach over 95 per cent. The quality of the job is very good, and I believe we are going to meet the timeline,” Wike said.
However, he cautioned that while quality was not in doubt, timely delivery of some components, especially the bridge section, remained a concern.
“There is no doubt about the quality of the job, but I am still doubtful about completion on time. They have given us their assurance; I hope they will keep to it,” he stated.
On the Airport Road to Kuje Junction project, being executed by Arab Contractors, Wike expressed confidence that it could be completed within weeks.
“Very good quality job… we are hopeful that by the end of this month, we may be wrapping up that project,” he said.
He also commended progress on the Kuje–Gwagwalada road, noting that work was proceeding steadily and within expected timelines.
“The work is going quite well. We also believe they will deliver on time,” the minister stated.
Wike was particularly upbeat about the City Gate project being handled by Julius Berger, describing it as a landmark development that would redefine Abuja’s entry point.
“Very good, beautiful work. In the next one month, anyone coming to Abuja will see a different landscape. If residents of Abuja demand the best, then we will provide the best,” he said.
The minister, however, stressed that all contractors must align with government timelines for project inauguration ahead of the third anniversary celebrations.
“These are projects scheduled for inauguration during the third anniversary of this administration. I urge the companies to adhere strictly to timelines,” he emphasised.
On the Wuse/Central Area link roads, Wike said the quality of work remained commendable but reiterated concerns over the pace of delivery.
“I have seen the work ongoing. Quality is not in doubt, but I am still concerned about timely completion,” he said.
He disclosed that several major projects would be commissioned within the anniversary period, including water treatment plants in Bwari and Ushafa; roads in Katampe, Gishiri and Gaduwa; the CLC project; sections of the Kuje–Gwagwalada corridor; Bazango and Kaura roads; and the relocation and development of the Apo Mechanics Village.
Wike also revealed that the City Gate project would feature permanent security installations, 24-hour surveillance, and AI-enabled monitoring systems.
“We are going to provide security in that area… security cameras, AI, everything will be in place,” he said.
The minister assured that the FCT Administration would continue to work with contractors to ensure timely delivery of all projects, noting that Abuja’s transformation agenda must be fully realised through strict adherence to schedules.
“Overall, we are very satisfied with the level of commitment shown by the various companies. We will also do our part to fulfil our obligations,” he added.
