President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing critical infrastructure in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to enable academic and professional institutions to thrive.
President Tinubu gave the assurance on Wednesday in Abuja while inaugurating the newly constructed Collector Road C01 and bridge, linking the Body of Benchers, Nile University and Baze University in the Institution and Research District.
Represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, the President said the district was conceived in the Abuja Master Plan as the intellectual hub of the nation’s capital but had long been hindered by inadequate infrastructure.
He said the new road would improve access, enhance safety and create a more conducive environment for learning and professional development.
“Before today, moving between these institutions was a daily challenge for students, lecturers and residents alike. Today, we have restored ease of movement and enhanced safety.
“But beyond that, we are creating an environment where academic and professional institutions can thrive without the burden of infrastructural neglect,” he said.
Tinubu described infrastructure as a key driver of economic growth, noting that improved road networks stimulate investment and expand development opportunities.
“When you build roads, you open up districts; when you open up districts, you attract investment, and when investment comes, Nigeria grows,” he said.
The President urged the management, staff and students of Nile University and Baze University, as well as the Body of Benchers and other residents, to protect the facility.
He reiterated that his administration would continue to invest in cities, satellite towns and rural communities to ensure that all Nigerians benefit from good governance.
Tinubu also commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr Nyesom Wike, for his commitment to delivering quality infrastructure worthy of the nation’s capital.
In his remarks, Wike reaffirmed the FCT Administration’s resolve to ensure that every district benefits from the Federal Government’s infrastructure drive.
He said several projects had been completed across the FCT, including in satellite towns, with the support of President Tinubu.
“We have visited many districts across the FCT, including satellite towns. Today, we are inaugurating yet another project in another district.
“Your Excellency, we appreciate your support and the resources made available, particularly the decision to exempt the FCT Administration from the Treasury Single Account, which has enabled us to execute numerous projects across the city,” Wike said.
The Minister of State for the FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, thanked President Tinubu and the leadership of the National Assembly for their continued support in advancing infrastructure development across the territory.
She also commended Wike for his commitment to translating development plans into completed projects that are improving the lives of residents.
Earlier, the Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engr Richard Dauda, said the 1.5-kilometre Collector Road C01, stretching from the Baze University Junction to Nile University, was awarded in October 2025.
According to Dauda, the road will provide a critical alternative route and improve connectivity among the public and private institutions located within the Institution and Research District.
