The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has said that the construction of new roads in Abuja is an important part of Nigeria’s plan to host the next Commonwealth Games.
Wike made this known on Tuesday during the flag-off of the Access Arterial Road S1 project, which runs from Ring Road 2 to the FCT Fire Service Station in Kaura District, Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC).
According to him, good roads will make Nigeria’s bid stronger. “I hope you know that Nigeria is bidding to host the next Commonwealth Games. We cannot succeed without a good road network,” he said.
He explained that modern infrastructure would impress the international committee when they visit. “If the committee comes and sees that we are providing the basic infrastructure, it will help us get the hosting right,” he added.
The minister also stressed that the new road will help the Fire Service respond faster to emergencies.
He said that poor road access in the past slowed down fire trucks during incidents.
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The 2-kilometre road project includes a 3-span bridge. Wike expressed confidence that it would improve emergency services and make life easier for residents.
He also urged the company handling the project to employ local youths from the area. “Please give residents the opportunity to participate by employing our young people,” he appealed.
Wike further noted that the FCT Administration is working on several other road projects, including the Airport-Kuje Expressway and the Kuje-Gwagwalada dualisation, under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“The hope is that before the end of President Tinubu’s first term, Abuja will look very different and compete with other world-class cities,” he said.
The FCT Minister of State, Mariya Mahmoud, also spoke at the event. She said the road project supports President Tinubu’s vision for better infrastructure.
She added that it would improve fire response times, boost public safety, and open up Kaura District for more businesses, investments, and a better quality of life.