By: Abba Onyekachukwu, Abuja.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr. Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, has officially launched the development of the Arterial Road N1 (Olusegun Obasanjo Way) in Abuja. The project, awarded to Arab Contractors Nigeria Limited, is expected to be completed within one year and eight months, according to a press release from Rabi Musa Umar, the Assistant Director Press, Office of the Minister on Thursday.
During the flag-off ceremony, Wike emphasized that the road project demonstrates the FCT Administration’s commitment to improving road networks and resolving traffic issues, thereby supporting the city’s long-term urban growth in line with the Abuja Master Plan. He expressed confidence that the contractor would complete the work on time, citing their successful ongoing project on Federal Highway 105.
Wike also addressed recent rumors about his health, dismissing them as false and politically motivated. “It’s unfortunate to hear that they said I was sick… God will continue to help them to have a heart attack,” he quipped.
The Minister also condemned recent criticism of President Tinubu on social media, particularly an instance where a popular activist referred to the President as a criminal. Wike argued that such unguarded utterances were uncalled for, noting that Nigerians are fortunate to have a President who believes in the rule of law.
Regarding a planned demonstration by FCT resident doctors, Wike assured them that their concerns, including allowances and employment of health officers, were being addressed. He also frowned upon reports of purported plans by workers to disrupt the project flag-off ceremony.
The Arterial Road N1 project involves the construction of a dual-carriage road with three lanes in each direction, a five-span bridge, drainage systems, water pipelines, power supply, and street lighting. The project is expected to create numerous direct and indirect jobs for the youth.
The General Manager of Arab Contractor Nig. Ltd, Wa’el Faruk, thanked the FCT Minister for the confidence in the company and assured him of the timely delivery of quality infrastructure.
The ceremony ended with the symbolic flagging of the project, where the Minister mounted a heavy-duty construction truck, started the ignition, and declared that the project be completed “to the glory of the Almighty God and for the benefit of our people.”