Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Friday revealed that the Federal Government has spent over N100 billion on road projects, education and security infrastructure in Bwari Area Council under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Speaking during the commissioning of the Gaba-Tokulo road project in Bwari, Wike emphasised the administration’s commitment to delivering tangible development to every area council.
“This Gaba-Tokulo road project alone cost the government no less than N7 billion. Since we flagged it off in January 2024, we ensured prompt payments, which allowed for timely completion without delays or abandoned contracts,” Wike stated.
The Minister highlighted other completed road projects in Bwari, including the rehabilitation of roads in Ushafa, War College, and other communities, which have collectively cost N28bn.
He said: “In total, the Federal Government has invested N62.2 billion in road infrastructure for Bwari Area Council. This figure underscores our commitment to infrastructure development as part of the Renewed Hope Agenda”.
Beyond road projects, the Minister noted substantial investments in the education sector. New and rehabilitated schools in Bwari, including Government Secondary Schools in Dutse, Ushafa, Kubwa, and others, accounted for N27 billion in spending.
“Combining road infrastructure and education, the Federal Government has spent close to N90 billion in Bwari Area Council alone. This is a testament to our resolve to restore hope and bring development to the people,” Wike added.
Wike also announced the construction of two new police divisions in Igu and Ushafa to enhance security in the area. He assured residents that the projects would be completed and handed over by May 2025.
“Security is paramount, and these police divisions will ensure that residents of Bwari can live and work in peace. This is another way the Renewed Hope Agenda is transforming communities,” he noted.
Looking ahead, Wike confirmed that every area council would have at least one major road project in the 2025 budget. For Bwari, he revealed plans to extend the Gaba-Tokulo road to Kawu, which will be prioritized for inclusion in the upcoming budget.
“We are listening to the people. This government is about fulfilling promises and delivering results. With your continued support, we will achieve even more,” Wike assured.
He commended the contractors for their quality work and directed them to include streetlights along the Gaba-Tokulo road as an added improvement.
The Minister concluded by urging residents to maintain the completed infrastructure, stressing that the Renewed Hope Agenda is a reality aimed at improving the lives of all Nigerians.
Earlier, the Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its unwavering commitment to rural infrastructure development, which she described as a driving force for connectivity and economic growth.
She also commended the leadership of FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, and members of the National Assembly for their vision and relentless efforts in turning this initiative into reality.
Highlighting the importance of the new road and two-span river bridges, she emphasized the transformative impact it will have on trade, education, healthcare, and mobility within the community.
“This is more than just infrastructure; it is a pathway to progress and prosperity,” she stated, urging the community to support the project’s smooth implementation and maximize its benefits for generations to come.
Responding to a request by the Chairman of Bwari Area Council, Hon. John Gabaya, for the extension of the Gaba-Tokulo road to Kawu near the boundary with Kaduna State and the provision of an alternative route from Bwari to Kubwa, the Minister promised that the Tokulo-Kawu road requested by the council Chairman will be prioritized, considering its significance to the people and in fulfillment of the directive of Mr, President for each Area Council to get a minimum of one rural road in 2025.
He also commended Setraco, the construction company, for delivering a high-quality road project, adding that the contractor has been directed to also provide streetlights on the road, beyond the initial scope of the contract.
Earlier, the Bwari Area Council Chairman, Hon. Gabaya, had expressed gratitude to the Minister for providing infrastructure in Bwari and across all six Area Councils within the FCT.
The Chairman acknowledged the historical challenges faced by residents, highlighting the previous dangers associated with the Gaba-Tokulo road, which had sadly resulted in the loss of lives.
Describing the FCT Minister as an embodiment of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Chairman presented a gift to the FCT Minister and the Minister of State on behalf of the grateful residents of Tokulo as a token of appreciation for the road project.
In his welcome address, the Coordinator, Satellite Town Development Department, STDD, Hon. Zulkiflu Abdulkadir, expressed gratitude to the FCT Minister for his unwavering commitment to the growth and development of the satellite towns and area councils.
Hon. Zulkiflu said, under the leadership of Barr. Wike, the six Area Councils have witnessed a renewed sense of hope and progress, adding that the Minister’s dedication and passion for improving the lives of citizens have been instrumental in driving forward the goals of the STDD.
He said that the project has already made a remarkable impact on the rural environment, promoting small and medium-scale businesses.
The coordinator expressed confidence that the road will not only improve the economic landscape of the community but also enhance the overall quality of life of the people.
Another highlight of the event was a minute silence held in honour of a former Minister of the FCT, Lt. Gen. Jeremiah Timbut Useni (Rtd) who died late on Thursday.