Abuja, Nigeria — The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has commenced the urgent rehabilitation of the 18-kilometer Nyanya-Karu-Orozo road in Abuja, marking a significant stride toward improving infrastructure in the nation’s capital. The project, which was flagged off alongside an inspection of the ongoing Apo-Karshi road construction, is slated for completion within eight months.
Wike disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the project under emergency rehabilitation measures. The minister, addressing journalists during the flag-off, emphasized the importance of the road to the government and its users.
“What attracted me to that road, if you remember, was during our visit to the Karshi-Apo road. I saw how deplorable the Nyanya-Karu-Orozo road was and said, ‘No, this is not acceptable.’ We wrote to Mr. President, and he approved immediate rehabilitation,” Wike stated.
Enhancing Key Infrastructure
The rehabilitation project will include the installation of streetlights, enhancing both safety and aesthetics. Wike stressed that the road, which serves multiple government agencies and densely populated communities, is critical for easing transportation challenges in the area.
“The contractor has assured us of completing the project within eight months. Once this road is rehabilitated and the Karshi-Apo road is completed, the area will experience significant relief,” Wike noted.
Concerns Over Apo-Karshi Road
The minister also expressed doubts about the capability of the contractor handling the Apo-Karshi road but refrained from terminating the contract. “The last time we visited, we urged the contractors to return to the site. Work has since resumed,” he said, signaling optimism that progress would continue without further delays.
Community Reactions and Appeals
The Bureau Newspaper visited the project site, where traffic diversions had caused temporary congestion. Despite the inconvenience, residents expressed relief and optimism about the road finally receiving attention after years of neglect.
Residents of Jikwoyi Phase 4 seized the opportunity to appeal to the minister for assistance with their electricity crisis, citing a blown transformer that has left the community in darkness for months. “We have been living without power for too long. It’s affecting our businesses and our lives,” a local resident lamented.
A Road to Progress
The Nyanya-Karu-Orozo rehabilitation is part of Wike’s broader strategy to address critical infrastructure challenges in the FCT. The minister’s proactive approach underscores the administration’s commitment to fostering development and improving the quality of life for Abuja residents.
With President Tinubu’s backing and Wike’s resolve, the project is expected to not only improve road conditions but also enhance economic activities in the affected areas. Residents remain hopeful that these interventions will mark the beginning of sustained infrastructure development in the capital.