President Bola Tinubu said on Wednesday that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is ready to welcome the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, whenever he decides to join.
The President stated this at the commissioning of Arterial Road N16 (Shehu Shagari Way), connecting Ring Road 1 (Nnamdi Azikiwe Way) to Arterial Road N20 (Wole Soyinka Way), along with accompanying interchanges and feeder roads in Maitama District, Abuja.
The Wike-led FCT Administration executed the projects.
Commending Wike for his dedication and collaborative approach to governance, the President said: “He could not achieve this alone without your full cooperation as a team builder and player. You have proved that teamwork is the hallmark of good leadership.”
President Tinubu acknowledged the support of traditional rulers and local communities, especially in ensuring the smooth relocation of residents affected by the development:
”I commend the Minister for relocating the local communities affected by the development, with peace and good compensation. The government has played its part. I urge you to protect this infrastructure and use it wisely,” he said.
Amid applause from the crowd, President Tinubu addressed Wike’s political alignment with humour.
”He’s not a member of my party, not yet. But the day he changes his mind and registers with the Progressives, we will welcome him because we will enjoy him singing as ‘e dey sweet us’.
President Tinubu described the project as more than a stretch of road.
”It affirms our commitment to transformation under our Renewed Hope Agenda. What was once a missing link is now a modern, functional, and durable infrastructure, an artery fully realised through the leadership of the FCT Administration under the Honourable Minister, Barrister Wike,” the President said.
He noted that the corridor had remained underdeveloped for years despite being an integral part of the Abuja Master Plan.
”This road will ease traffic congestion around Central Abuja and improve connectivity to developing districts such as Katampe, Jahi, and Bwari. It will stimulate housing and business growth while serving as a foundation for future city integration,” he added.
President Tinubu reiterated that infrastructure development is essential to Nigeria’s progress, saying:
”Infrastructure is the bedrock of national competitiveness, growth, social integration, and economic opportunity.
”There is no way industrialisation will flourish without good roads. We invest in roads, rail, power, healthcare, education, and digital infrastructure. We can only unlock Nigeria’s full potential through this coordinated and integrated development. I promise you, we will,” he said.
Reaffirming his administration’s resolve to continue delivering results regardless of political distractions, the President said: