FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike has called on Nigerians to continue to pray for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying he’s working round the clock to surmount the current economic hardship
He stated this at the flag-off of the construction of the six-lane Arterial Road N5, also known as Obafemi Awolowo Way, in Life Camp, Abuja.
Wike, who explained Tinubu was doing everything he could economically and infrastructural-wise to tackle the various challenges confronting the country, expressed confidence that his strategic measures would soon yield the expected results, including alleviation of hunger.
He tasked Nigerians to continue to pray for Nigeria and its leaders, assuring that measures have been put in place to ensure that all citizens benefit from the various Renewed Hope Initiatives.
According to Wike, the multiplier effects of the series of roads flagged off within the last one week had already generated direct and indirect employment for hundreds of FCT residents.
Wike further encouraged Julius Berger Company handling the project to consider completion of the project within the next 14 months, against the initial contract agreement of 18 months; with a mouthwatering offer to award additional contracts to Julius Berger, if they could beat the 18 months to 14 months.
Even though the contract sum of the project was not disclosed, Wike announced that the FCTA had made 70℅ upfront payments to Julius Berger for the projects awarded to the company.
He expressed optimism that the company will deliver quality jobs that they are known for.
“I can tell you, before the end of this administration of President Tinubu, Nigerians will smile. These problems, (hunger, suffering) have been there for donkey years, whether it was PDP, APC, Military.
“But by his dexterity and commitment he is putting measures that are temporarily difficult, but which at the end of the day, we will all come to sing to God. Continue to pray for Mr President.
“I thank Mr President for making sure work continues in FCT. He gave us the latitude to increase our threshold. Today, schools’ renovation is going on.
“I’m sure people living here never believe this road can be done again, but Mr President says it must be done. We are here to bring back your hope ” Wike assured
Performing the flag off, Senate President, Godswill Akpabio represented by Chairman, Senate Committee On FCT, Ibrahim Bomai who lauded efforts of FCTA in road construction, said good road network is critical in promoting socio- economic activities.
Akpabio while commending Wike for his foresight in improving the revenue base of the Federal Capital Territory, pledged the support of the 10th Assembly to ensure speedy passage of bills meant to fast-track infrastructure development of the territory.
Giving the overview of the project, the Executive Secretary, Federal Capital Development Authority, FCDA, Shehu Hadi Ahmad, said the 4.4km road stretch with 6 lanes will enhance seamless movement into the Kado fish market, life camp, Karimu among others.
“The road N5 is named Obafemi Awolowo Road, connecting international Conference Centre to Julius Berger Herbert Macaulay, but continuing from life camp junction in Gwarinpa district, up to ring road 3 in Iddo Gwari district, covering 4.4km, 6 lanes of three dual carriageway expected to bring relief for residents of Kado, Karimu, Gwarinpa, Dape, Iddo – Gwari as well as Saburi and Dei-Dei,” Ahmad said.
