The Etsu of Kwali, Luka Nizassan III, has hailed the newly constructed Gomani–Dafa–Yangoji Road in Kwali Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), describing it as a major infrastructure milestone for the area.
Nizassan told journalists on the sidelines of the inauguration of the project in Dafa on Tuesday that the road was a long-awaited answer to the prayers of his people.
He commended President Bola Tinubu and the FCT Minister, Mr Nyesom Wike, for responding to the needs and aspirations of the community.
“We are delighted that this part of the area council is benefiting from government intervention. There is nothing more gratifying than making requests and seeing them fulfilled,” he said.
The traditional ruler said the newly constructed road holds significant historical and economic importance for the region.
According to him, it is one of the oldest routes in the old Abuja Emirate, now the Suleja Emirate, dating back to the colonial era when it was used by emissaries for tax collection.
He noted, however, that despite its historical contribution to Nigeria’s development, the corridor had suffered decades of neglect.
“Previous administrations and private individuals attempted to rehabilitate the road, but all efforts proved unsuccessful until Wike intervened,” he said.
Nizassan said the new road would not only revitalise the local economy but also strengthen security across the area.
He explained that before the reconstruction, the road had deteriorated so badly that it hindered security operations and disrupted economic activities.
“The road was in such a deplorable condition that it became extremely difficult for security personnel to access the area for patrols and search operations.
“It will improve security because those who commit heinous crimes do not thrive in easily accessible communities,” he stated.
Nizassan pointed out that Kwali, being a predominantly agrarian community, would benefit immensely from the road, which directly links four key political wards by connecting Yangoji on the Abuja-Lokoja Expressway to Dafa, Gomani and Pai.
He said the improved connectivity would significantly reduce travel time for commuters and enable farmers to transport agricultural produce more efficiently to urban markets.
Describing governance as a partnership between the government and the people, the traditional ruler urged residents to continue supporting the Tinubu administration.
“Governance is a two-way relationship. Our responsibility now is to play our part by supporting the government.
“We will continue to support this administration because we still expect more developmental projects from the government,” he said.
Looking ahead, Nizassan expressed confidence that the community would continue to rely on the FCT minister’s commitment to further development, particularly the provision of pipe-borne water and the ongoing rehabilitation of schools.
He said the projects would provide clean water for residents and create a more conducive learning environment for students.
