By Eunice Orike
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory FCT, Nyesom Wike, has flagged off the construction of new road networks in the Asokoro Extension, reiterating the commitment of the President Bola Tinubu administration to transforming Abuja into a world-class capital city.
Wike, who spoke during the ceremony, said the ongoing rollout of infrastructure projects across the city and satellite towns is part of President Tinubu’s directive to ensure the FCT competes favourably with other global capitals.
“You cannot say FCT is working and Mr. President is not working. It doesn’t make sense. Through us, we carry out his vision that the FCT must compete favourably with other cities of the world,” Wike said.
The minister noted that the Asokoro district, despite its prominence, had suffered neglect over the years, with poor road connectivity, drainage, and street lighting.
He assured residents that the current administration would change that narrative through sustained investment in infrastructure.
“Without road networks, without drainage, without street lights, how would life here be? By the time these roads are completed, the drainages are put in place, and the streetlights come on, Asokoro will take a new shape,” he added.
Wike also highlighted the job creation impact of the ongoing construction drive, noting that multiple companies are engaged daily in road, water, lighting, and sanitation projects across the FCT.
“Every day, one company or another is carrying out construction that’s job creation, that’s employment for our youths,” he said.
The minister urged residents to meet their tax obligations, stressing that development cannot be sustained without adequate revenue.
“Good roads and clean environments are like delicious soup it’s money that makes it sweet,” he said. “If you don’t pay your taxes, we can’t build the kind of Abuja you want.”
He further disclosed that the FCT Administration is expanding its interventions beyond roads to include education, health, and sports infrastructure.
According to him, rehabilitation work is set to begin on at least 40 schools, alongside renewed implementation of the 2025 capital budget for the health sector.
“No sector will be left untouched,” We have worked on roads, schools, sports, and we are now moving to health. All we ask is patience and support through tax compliance”, Wike said.
