By Eunice Orike
President Bola Tinubu has commissioned the newly constructed Connector Road CN-8, known as Asuquo Okon, and other connected roads in Dakibiyu District of Abuja, hails the project as evidence of his administration’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s cities.
The road stretches from Arterial Road N-5 (Obafemi Awolowo Way), to Arterial Road N-1 (Olusegun Obasanjo), which Tinubu described as a “vital artery of the city”, and a bold signature of the administration’s commitment to urban renewal and economic revitalization.
Speaking at the commissioning on Tuesday, the president, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, said the project is a testament to the administration’s commitment to urban renewal and economic revitalization, and is expected to breathe life into communities long waiting to be served.
He emphasised that the modernization of cities is a hallmark of a serious government, and that infrastructure development is key to restoring dignity and attracting investment.
“Infrastructure is not just about concrete and steel, but it is the most persuasive advertisement of leadership, of order, and of vision,” the President said.
He noted that modern cities inspire confidence, attract investment, and restore the dignity of their residents.
President Tinubu expressed dismay that inadequate infrastructure had choked the aspirations of the areas for too long, but assured that the project would bring immediate and enduring benefits, including flourishing communities, eased congestion, and thriving livelihoods.
The President described the project as a manifestation of the administration’s Renewed Hope agenda, which prioritizes practical impact over rhetoric.
He also reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable Nigeria, where development knows no postcode, governance does not discriminate, and the dignity of citizens is not defined by their geography.
Tinubu commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, for his sense of urgency in executing the project, and assured of the administration’s continued support for the FCTA.
The administration, according to the President, will continue to provide resources, policy backing, and institutional cooperation to ensure that projects like the commissioned road are delivered on time and to the highest standards.
“Our goal is to build a capital that works for everyone,” So as we commission this road, let it be a symbol not just of connectivity but of commitment, not just of movement but of momentum”, the president added.
In his remarks, the minister of the Federal Capital Territory FCT, Nyesom Wike, expressed his gratitude to the President for his unwavering support for projects initiated by the FCT administration.
Wike recalled his experience when searching for a location to construct the Abuja Division of the Court of Appeal, describing the roads as terrible and horrible.
He attributed the successful completion of the road project to President Tinubu’s support through the Federal Executive Council, which awarded the contract in September last year.
Wike reiterated his appreciation for the President’s continued support and solicited for more cooperation to drive development in the FCT.
On her part, the FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud aligned herself with the views expressed by the FCT Minister, stating that the Renewed Hope Agenda continues to bring tangible transformation to the landscape of the Federal Capital Territory.
However, she expressed the hope that the road network would ease movement, enhance connectivity, and stimulate further social and economic development within this rapidly growing area.
